We are told happiness is a choice. I have found this to be true in my life. We choose our thought, what meaning we give to our circumstances. It sounds so easy! It may be simple, but it is not "easy". It takes a commitment to an intentional and intuitive life - it may require us to reimagine.
Here are some steps in that direction we can all take today.
Practice Daily Gratitude
Expressing gratitude has been shown to do more than improve your mood. The simple act of writing down a few positive things about your day could improve overall Heath and well-being. Research has found this to help with energy, stress management as well as quality sleep.
Think about creating a small gratitude ritual.
Message me if you would you like the journal page that I use? ✍️ super simple!
Surround Yourself With Positive People
Happiness is contagious. A landmark 2008 study found that living within a mile of a happy person boosts your own happiness by 25%. (Time to meet your neighbors and make sure they are happy!) 🏡If you're feeling down, reach out to a friend who generally has a more positive attitude. Your brains have mirror neurons that will literally mimic what another person is expressing;
Practice Regular Acts of Kindness
Research has shown that spending money on others makes us happier than spending money on ourselves and doing small acts of kindness increases life satisfaction. Even the smallest nice gesture can make someone's day. I’m happy to your test subject if you want to try this one out! 😂
Spend More Time With Family and Friends
Friendships can be one of the keys to longevity. In fact, one study found that low social interaction—and in turn, loneliness—can be as bad for you as smoking 15 cigarettes a day and is twice as bad for your health as obesity. I’ll be going out to enjoy apples with my family more often! 🍎
Invest in Experiences, Not Objects
Research shows people report feeling happier when they spend their money on experiences rather than objects. We remember experiences for a longer period of time and our brains can re-live them, making our positive emotions last longer.
And even better… the object you spend money on is a Sunday TODAY with Willie Geist mug… both and object and an experience. #mugshot (this may not be the first mug shot I share!) 😊
Adapted from, 5 Things Science Says Will Make You Happier. By Nataly Kogan