10 Simple Habits to Incorporate into Your Life for a Happier You

According to the 2013 World Happiness Report, America ranks 17th amongst the happiest countries in the world. It may come as a surprise to many since America is one of the few countries with freedom, equal rights, and wealth. So why aren’t we happier?

The good news is, it doesn’t take major lifestyle changes to become happier. Here are ten easy habits you can incorporate into your life to start your journey towards a happier you.

1. Stop Shopping

Consumerism is the biggest obstacle to happiness around the world, according to the Science of Happiness infographic. Retail therapy may provide a temporary fix, but often leads to buyer’s guilt or jealousy. Remember, you can’t buy happiness. Put down the plastic and step away from the cash register.

2. Work Out Often

Physical activity promotes happiness. When you exercise, your body releases endorphins, which bring about feel-good reactions. Besides, staying active can naturally cause you to feel more excitement and enthusiasm for daily activities. So, make a mix playlist of your favorite songs and hit the gym.

3. Eat Bananas

Bananas contain tryptophan and tyrosine, which change into the hormone serotonin. This super fruit brings about calmness to your body and mind while giving you the right amount of energy and brainpower to take on the day. Eat one for breakfast or as a snack.

4. Attend Church

Attending church regularly can boost your mood. It gives you time for reflection, causing you to put your worries and stresses on hold. It’s a place to release your stress and emotions and a good place for socializing and talking with like-minded people.

5. Volunteer

Lending a helping hand is rewarding in itself. Using your skills and expertise to assist the less fortunate can boost happiness. Start small, maybe prepare a meal for your elderly neighbors or volunteer to cook and serve dinner at a local soup kitchen. Bringing some happiness to someone else’s life is contagious.

6. Enjoy Friendship

Friends are like family; they are with us through thick and thin. It’s essential to spend time with them, have a good laugh and reminisce, and talk about life. Avoid gossip and venting about problems that plague you and shift the conversation to something lighthearted. Laughter is one of the best prescriptions for daily happiness.

7. Plan Your Day

Having a set schedule can alleviate stress and tension throughout your day. Plan your meals a week in advance and cook ahead on the weekends. Each evening, set aside a few minutes to ready clothing and items that you need for the next day. Remember, it takes at least 30 days to make a habit, so try it for a month. Keep some “me time” in your schedule to relax and enjoy your own company.

8. Eat Healthy

Eating a well-balanced meal can keep your metabolism going strong all day long. This will give you enough energy to sustain your daily routines and feel great. Strive to eat as naturally as possible and avoid processed foods. Make sure to eat plenty of lean protein like chicken or fish paired with some green vegetables for brainpower and focus.

9. Turn Off the TV

Turning on the TV for “noise” or to relax can be harmful to your health and happiness. Don’t turn on the TV while doing something pleasurable and relaxing, like cooking or spending time with your family. The negative reports on TV can increase your stress levels. Instead, listen to classical or smooth jazz music to relax your body and mind.

10. Meditate

Meditating in the morning is one of the best ways to start your day. Positive thoughts can train you to view your accomplishments, body, and relationships positively. Channeling all of your love and joy to others will bring happiness back to you, magnified. Try the ‘Loving Kindness Meditation.’ Breathe deeply and tap into your inner wisdom.

In conclusion, you don’t need to make significant lifestyle changes to become a happier person. Incorporating simple habits into your life can bring about significant changes. Remember, happiness is not a destination but a journey, and a journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step.