From Self Development Secrets, Rebecca Temsen shares her recommendations for 41 things that will make you happier. These are my top nine from her list:
3. Talk to an old friend
We all have friends with whom we have lost touch. Some of these friends are gone because of bad blood. Others though, just fell through the cracks. If you want a moment of real happiness, get in contact with one of those friends. Say hello, ask how they’re doing, and reconnect. The conversation doesn’t have to be long or profound. Just make the connection and move on if necessary. These little moments can build up over time and help you connect with the people who make you happiest and you’ll be happy naturally.
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6. Go outside
The great outdoors has numerous benefits. Fresh air can work wonders, as can a bit of warm sunlight. Even if you aren’t an outdoorsy person, though, stepping outside your home can be beneficial. When you go outside, you’ll see something new – even if it’s just the clouds moving across the sky.
Learning to appreciate these minor changes will allow you to enjoy the world. Every step out your door is a fresh start towards something new. A quick walk around the neighbourhood can change the way you see the world. Not up to walking? Don’t worry – you can gain quite a bit from sitting on your front porch.
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9. Create an awesome playlist
Music can soothe the soul. You have certain songs that mean a lot to you, so why not put them all together? Go through your music catalog and make a playlist of the music you love.
Next time you are sad, play these songs. They don’t have to be upbeat, but they do have to be songs you love. Giving yourself access to things that soothe you can make you much happier.
The best part about putting together a playlist is that it is a work in progress. As time goes by, you can add more songs that mean something to you. If you’re stuck, start with this!
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11. Draw something
Remember how fun it was to draw when you were a kid? You didn’t draw because you were good – you drew because it made you happy. Even as an adult, making a few simple doodles can make an impact on your day. Simply said, being creative makes us happy.
If you want a boost, draw something – you don’t have to put it on the fridge, but it might help. If you aren’t comfortable drawing, you might enjoy coloring. A little bit of artistic expression can go a very long way. You’ll be surprised by how the act of creation can improve your mood.
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13. Sing out loud
When was the last time you sang out loud? According to Time Magazine, singing out loud changes the way your brain works. Singing can help you to ward off depression and look at the world happily.
Put that playlist you made earlier to use and sing your heart out. If you’re up to it, participate in karaoke, preferably away from those who know you. If you don’t have to feel self-conscious, you can enjoy yourself a bit more. A song in your heart really can make you feel a great deal happier.
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23. Help someone else
You’re not the only person out there who wants to feel happier. Sometimes, the best way to improve your mood is to look at those of others. You’re already happy – so why not be happier by helping out a friend.
The key to becoming happier through helping others is to do it altruistically. Don’t expect to get something in return. The joy you get from helping should be reward enough. Remember, only help out if it’s going to make you feel better – no one will enjoy working with someone who helps begrudgingly.
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25. Pet an animal
Animals are great mood boosters. They don’t mind hanging around you at your worst, and they love to see you when you walk through the door. According to The Huffington Post, they can also have a very profound impact on your happiness.
Even if you don’t own a dog or cat, you can still get some joy from animals. Visit a pet store or local shelter to interact with the animals. Let their mood inform your own – you never know what you might learn from these happy creatures.
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28. Watch your favourite episode of your favourite show
Television can be a great way to improve your mood. When you love a show, it’s because there’s something in it that speaks to you. You probably have a favourite episode – so why not watch it?
The great thing about watching television is that it is a relatively brief task. Thanks to modern technology, you can probably even watch your favourite episode while you’re doing something else. If you want a quick pick-me-up, give yourself a chance to watch the show that you love the most.
29. Do something physical
Human beings aren’t designed to be totally sedentary. Even if your hobbies involve being in an upright and seated position, you can get a lot of joy out of doing something physical. What that means, of course, is up to you.
You might go for a run, play a game of basketball, or even chop some wood. What matters is that you get the blood flowing and allow yourself to exult in your physicality. Sometimes, being happy means working up a sweat.
Read the full story at I Want to Be Happy! 41 Things That Will Make You Happier in 2017 – Self Development Secrets
