Life has its ups and downs, and while we learn from both, it doesn’t say anywhere that we have to remain down in the dumps any longer than necessary. We choose how we feel in any given moment, so let’s look at some quick tips to get our attitudes—and perspectives—pointed in the right direction.
1. Smile
Studies have shown that smiling has a positive effect on your mood, so why not give it a go? As a bonus, smiles are infectious, and making others smile is sure to lighten your mood along with theirs.
2. Get Out of the House
Being cooped up in the same environment can cause feelings of isolation and depression. Changing your surroundings and getting a breath of fresh air can snap you out of your mood in a heartbeat.
3. Soak Up the Sun
The vitamin D provided by the sun has been proven, along with other benefits, to boost serotonin levels in the body. Even squeezing in the time for 15 minutes of sunlight will immediately aid in lifting your spirits.
4. Reward Yourself
Allow yourself a pat on the back for whatever challenges you have overcome recently. You must celebrate your victories in order to rejuvenate yourself for future battles.
5. Pamper Yourself
Indulge yourself with something easy—something that lifts your spirits. Taking a hot bath, giving yourself a pedicure, or getting a massage are just a few of the many ways that you can pamper your body and improve your mood.
6. Redecorate
Shaking things up a bit in your environment can help you shake off that stagnant energy you may be feeling. Altering your environment can change your perspective and leave you feeling more open and hopeful for the next thing that comes your way.
7. Accomplish Something You’ve Been Putting Off
Procrastination can contribute to any feelings of negativity. Finishing something that you have been avoiding will give you a sense of accomplishment and raise that sour mood instantly.
8. Douse Yourself in Inspiration
Who inspires you? Reflecting on and reading up on people and circumstances that give you faith and hope will instantly fill you with a bright sense of purpose.
9. Exercise
As exercising releases endorphins, it is a quick way to make yourself feel good. It also makes you feel more powerful, alive and youthful, which are key ingredients to feeling happy.
10. Do Something Good for Someone Else
Getting out of your own head gives you a fresh perspective on life. Brightening someone else’s day is sure to make you feel better about yourself, and happiness is contagious.
11. Count Your Blessings
List the aspects of your life and the people in it that you are thankful for. It is easy to take your daily benefits for granted and lose sight of all you have going for you. Celebrating and appreciating your life will open you up for more of the same positive feelings and experiences.
5 thoughts on “11 Ways to Instantly Find Happiness”
Hi Alina,
When I am feeling a little down I turn up the music and dance around the house. This always helps to lift my mood and provide a laugh for my children :). I also like to think of what I am grateful for. I agree with pallasathena that sometimes the circumstances are so overwhelming that it comes down to survival mode. When that happens it is a matter of just putting one foot in front of the other. In cases like these it is helpful to extend your hand to another and bond together in the face of adversity. Together there is strength.
Wonderful article with lots and lots of beautiful things to do for yourself everyday.
One more thing I love doing for myself that brings me so much self satisfaction is
eating whole foods. I have become a healthier eater, so to speak, by eating to stay
healthy and happy. I always pack fresh berries, vegetables like avacadoes and make
meals out of whole healthy fruits and vegetables along with whole grain tasty crackers.
It is something alot of people cant understand when I am making meals out of strawberries,
oranges, apples, peanut butter, avacadoes etc., when they are eating fried processed foods.
I eat lighter when I am working and dont feel drained and full.
Its a great way to stay mentally satisfied as well as physically satisfied and I know I am taking care
of my body.
Great way to love yourself too.
Thank you and peace and love to all.
This is swell assuming one has the leisure time to do these things……………….I have used all of them most of my life…..
I have been known to take a crew of 3 out to the law to lie in the grass & look at the clouds for 1/2 hour or so. Yes they were “on the clock” MY responsibility…but worth it because they always worked more efficiently afterwards.
But sometimes forces become so extreme, one doesn’t have that leeway.
ie. How many Japanese in the vicinity of Fukushima are redecorating, or soaking up the sun? Sometimes life throws extremes that have to be delt with in a different way……….Lets be realistic.
Hi,
Nice little article……
I like to do projects around the house when I’m upset……or I sew…..I’ve made all of the curtains hanging in my old farmhouse…..
Blessed Be )O(
Gina Rose ext.9500
Great suggestions and ideas, Alina!! Each and all of these can really help lift our spirits, attitudes and point us in the right direction, that is for sure. Although a positive attittude about life in general, is certainly a ‘necessary’ foundation to happiness in the first place. 🙂
Hugs & Blessings,
Coreen @ VOS