10 little ways to be happier
In the world of today, it is admittedly hard to find happiness. With the media focus on the negative events in our society, positivity can be fleeting. Here are my top ten tips to find joy in your everyday life.
March 6, 2019
- Take pride in your accomplishments: Whether it be getting an A on a test or getting a new job, congratulate yourself and realize what a good job you’re doing.
- Stop comparing yourself to others: In the digital age this can be difficult, but you have to realize there are so many factors to every aspect of life that there is no way comparing yourself to others is fair in any sense. Just know there’s no limit to the number of people who can be pretty or successful. For me, I realize I have individual strengths and talents that others don’t. I take the time to recognize that I am unique in my own ways and don’t need to conform to anyone else’s standards.
- Give back: Take some time to do something for others, whether it be donating clothes, volunteering, or telling someone that you appreciate them, doing small things to help other people will help you know that you’re doing the right thing. I personally donate a lot of my old clothes to different places; along with this I volunteer every summer and whenever I can. It’s so important to give back and help those who are less fortunate.
- Respect your own limits: Know yourself. Sure, stepping out of your comfort zone is good and can lead to new opportunities, but if something feels wrong, trust yourself. If you need to take a day off work or school for a mental health day, do so. It’s so important to keep your mind and body at top shape. Some ways I like to relax are: doing face masks, writing, going for a walk or watching my favorite movies.
- Find a passion project: Find something that motivates you and engulf yourself in it. There’s nothing more uplifting than working on and finishing a project you’ve poured your heart and soul into. Follow your dreams, you never know where it might lead you. This summer I decided what branch of journalism I want to go into, and ever since I’ve been working very hard to plan, and get it off the ground.
- Surround yourself with good people: Easier said than done, but cut toxic people out of your life. You should have a support system of great friends and family around you. Having people who pollute your mind with negativity will only hold you back. Whenever you’re having a bad day, it’s very beneficial to have a good friend at your side, and my best friend provides a much needed positive outlook into my life and is always there for me when I need it.
- Don’t overload yourself: You may think you can handle doing ten things at once, but you need time to rest. There’s nothing worse than being stressed about something but having no time to relax. Seriously, put your health first. This ties into knowing your limits, schedule at least one night a week for yourself.
- Have goals: This sounds kind of stupid, but I promise it’s not. Have something that motivates you. If you float through life with little to no desires, you’ll never be able to feel the satisfaction of reaching them. Carry a notebook. Having a physical copy of the things you want to accomplish is key to completing them.
- Don’t settle: You can always improve; never think that you are where you’re supposed to be. Strive to gain more. when we settle is when we give up and eventually lose happiness. Know you can always do better and fight for it. Once you’re content with your work, it’s time to start something new.
- Realize you’re worth it: If you have a position, it’s for a reason. Don’t ever think anyone deserves it more, or is better than you. They might be stronger in one area but everyone’s different; your strengths are someone’s weaknesses, and vice versa. You are talented and smart and beautiful, and if someone tells you differently, they’re not worth your time. When you’re getting ready in the morning take a second to give yourself some love.