The happiness habit
What do happiness experts do to stay happy?
A recent survey by TIME asked 18 leading happiness experts about their daily habits and professional insights on how to boost mood and well-being.
While the meaning of happiness may be subjective, these experts largely agreed on a cocktail of ingredients: a sense of control and autonomy over one’s life, being guided by meaning and purpose, and connecting with others.
And they largely agreed that happiness can be measured, strengthened, and taught.
One of the most striking lessons that emerged from the survey was the importance of acknowledging negative emotions instead of suppressing them.
Experts cautioned against the misconception that dodging resentment, fear, or anger is healthy. Instead, they advised that we should aim to accept and appropriately deal with difficult feelings.
So what happiness habits do these experts have in common? Spending time with family and friends outside of work, pursuing hobbies, getting sufficient sleep, and exercising regularly were among the shared habits.
Mental well-being was also linked to spending time in nature, practicing breathing exercises, and engaging in activities that bring joy and laughter.
It's important to note that happiness is not a constant state, nor is it a yellow smiley face. As Stella Grizont, founder and CEO of Woopaah, which focuses on workplace well-being, says, "It’s being true to yourself and all the emotions that come up."
Being happy all the time is not a feasible or even desirable goal. Instead, true happiness stems from surrounding yourself with lots of love, being of service, and having a good time.
Happiness is about balance, resilience, and meaningful connections with others. While external factors like money and life circumstances can impact our mood, we can choose to work hard at cultivating happiness in our daily lives.
So, how do we cultivate the happiness habit? Here are some steps you can take:
Practice gratitude: Gratitude is one of the most powerful tools for cultivating happiness. By focusing on what we have instead of what we lack, we shift our mindset to a positive one. Make a habit of writing down three things you're grateful for every day. It could be something as simple as a warm cup of tea or a kind word from a friend.
Cultivate mindfulness: Mindfulness is the practice of being present and fully engaged in the moment. When we're mindful, we're able to appreciate the small things in life that often go unnoticed. Try to incorporate mindfulness into your daily routine, whether it's through meditation, deep breathing, or simply taking a few minutes to savor your morning coffee.
Connect with others: Human connection is essential for happiness. Make time for the people you care about, whether it's through a phone call, a text message, or a coffee date. Build meaningful relationships with others and you'll find that happiness comes naturally.
Take care of yourself: Self-care is crucial for happiness. Make sure you're taking care of your physical, mental, and emotional health. Get enough sleep, eat well, exercise regularly, and take time to do things you enjoy.
Focus on the positive: Our minds have a tendency to focus on the negative. To cultivate the happiness habit, we need to train ourselves to focus on the positive. Make a habit of finding the silver lining in every situation, and try to see the good in people and circumstances.
By practicing these habits consistently, you'll find that happiness becomes a natural state of mind. Remember, happiness is not a destination, it's a journey.
Make it a habit and enjoy the ride!
Through mindfulness and personal one-to-one life coaching, I can assist you in developing a deeper understanding of yourself and guide you in approaching yourself with curiosity and kindness. My system provides practical tools and techniques to help you manage difficult emotions and thoughts, and cultivate a more compassionate and accepting attitude toward yourself.
Mindfulness coaching is a supportive approach that can positively impact every aspect of your life. Whether you're struggling with stress, anxiety, or self-doubt, or seeking personal growth and self-improvement, mindfulness coaching can help you gain clarity, build resilience, and enhance your overall well-being.
I am dedicated to helping you unlock your full potential and live a more fulfilling and meaningful life. Through a personalized approach tailored to your unique needs, I will empower you to cultivate mindfulness, self-compassion, and positive change in your life.
Book your complimentary session with David today and take the first step towards developing a more fulfilling and meaningful life.
During your complimentary session with me, you'll have the opportunity to discuss your goals and concerns in a non-judgmental and confidential environment. You'll also learn more about how mindfulness coaching can benefit you and support you in navigating life's challenges with greater ease and awareness.