12 simple ways to feel happier in everyday life

We all want to feel happy. We want joy in our everyday lives. But we often look for it in big moments, when it can be found in our simple, everyday routines. Luckily, there are plenty of ways to find joy even in small, ordinary things, and to hold on to it for as long as we like. While these ideas aren’t new, they remind us how we can live a happy life—and how much of our own happiness is in our hands.

Make time to actually meet people, which means stepping out of your comfort zones and WhatsApp chats, and catching up with family and friends in person. It may be possible only on weekends, holidays and special occasions, but even a few hours with people you care about can make a big difference to your mood.

Stop focusing on what’s missing and be happy with what you already have. Studies have shown that simply noticing what’s going right in your lives can make you feel good, if not always happy. For example, you can acknowledge two or three things you’re grateful for each day or reflect on a positive moment from your day.

Do things with a purpose, such as signing up for a course you’ve been putting off, writing a few hundred words on the book you’ve been meaning to write, or performing an act of kindness. This not only gives you a sense of fulfilment but also brings out your inner potential.

Pick up a hobby or revive old ones, because doing something out of your daily routine, something you were once passionate about, can help keep your mind off your problems and give you some me time to de-stress. Science apparently calls this ‘savouring,’ where paying attention to little things in that moment can bring you joy.

Move around, get outside—these are two simple but effective ways to boost your well-being. A brisk walk, a stroll in the park, sitting near greenery or even a short workout—all of these can improve your mood and give you more energy for other things, like work-related meetings and deadlines. Plus, spending time outdoors or staying active helps you stay more focused and positive throughout the day.

Take care of yourself with proper hours of sleep, eating well, taking breaks, living in the present, and so on—basically, giving yourself the downtime you need to feel rejuvenated. Happiness isn’t just about what you do—it’s also about what you let yourself have.

A few extra tips:

• Read regularly, preferably books. Bedtime is a good reading time.

  
  

• Set a goal and chase it till it is complete.

   

• Take frequent breaks from emails, text messages and social media.

   

• Finish small tasks you’ve been putting off.

   

• Stop being so hard on yourself and take pride in your achievements.

   

• Accept what you can’t control—sometimes it’s best to flow with life as it comes.

You don’t have to put all this together. The idea is to pick a couple of things, more if you like, that resonate with you and slowly make them a part of your daily routine—and work your way to being more content, peaceful and happier.

© Pocketful of Happiness