Take a minute and think about your family, friends, colleagues, etc. We all know at least one person whom always seems to be happy, even when things aren’t perfect.
YOU could be that person. You just need to know the secrets for allowing yourself to reach contentment.
Here’s what that perpetually happy person isn’t telling you about why he or she is always wearing a smile…
1) A happy person takes risks
One of the keys to happiness is the absence of regret. So when a good opportunity that includes some risk presents itself, you can either:
- Go for it, succeed, and be better off OR fail, learn something new, and be better off.
- Or you can pass on the opportunity and then look back on it later with regret.
2) The power of “No”
One thing many people struggle with is learning to say “no”, but this is one of the keys to happiness. Instead of always resentfully agreeing to do things that you don’t want to or that cause you stress, just politely decline.
This is something I’ve had a problem with myself. But I can tell you that, as I’ve learned to say “no” at the right times, the unease you may feel at first is far better than the anxiety and displeasure from feeling like you always have to agree to do things you don’t want to.
3) Allow natural downs
Accept that you aren’t going to be happy 100% of the time. It’s only natural to go through ups and downs, happiness mixed with some sadness. The trick is accepting the bouts of sadness and handling it the right way.
Don’t let your sadness snowball and affect the things that make you happy. Recognize when you’re sad or upset, let yourself feel that way for some time, and then let it go.
4) Be grateful
Everyone has had a rock bottom. That’s a good thing, because now you can look back on that time and realize how good you have it now.
A good idea to help you stay appreciative of your situation in life is to write down on a slip of paper anytime something good happens to you. Keep those slips in a jar or container. When you need to, take one out and remember why you should be happy.
5) Exercise!
Go for a jog or walk. Hit the gym. Play a sport.
You don’t have to be the most athletic person in the world – exercising helps your body release endorphins, and endorphins make you happier!
