10 Tips To Live A Happier Life Today
Wow, 2020 has been a year to remember! No one expected any of this, but I think we can all agree that it has helped us appreciate the simple things in life and most importantly, our health. This year really motivated me to stop and think about how I can truly live a happier life without all the extra fluff. Here is my advice and I hope it helps as you try and navigate this ‘new normal’.
Show Up
Whatever you do, show up. Remember you are ENOUGH, so just show up. Commit with your best foot forward. This goes for everything in life - work, family, friendships.
Money Can’t Buy Happiness
While we are all on the pursuit of happiness, this really has nothing to do with money. Experiences hold way more weight than any material item you have probably ever bought. Those that believe that money directly determines happiness can sadly get stuck in a cycle of constantly wanting more … and then feeling like they never have enough.
Everything You Want is Already Yours
This is actually one of my favourite quotes and it relates to the attitude of gratitude. If you practice being grateful for all that you have, you really don’t need much more. Every morning start your day with writing down three things you are thankful for.
Set Boundaries
Recall those moments when you said YES when you really meant to say NO. That feeling is not a good one because remember that your time and energy is precious. It is important and healthy for you to clearly state your boundaries so that others learn to respect them.
Celebrate Small Wins
Goal setting is important, but it’s even more crucial to celebrate your small wins. This reward means you are getting that much closer to reaching your bigger goals.
Exercise
Movement releases endorphins. Endorphins make you happy. Period.
Fuel Your Brain
There is not complicated. When you eat good, you feel good. Read and read some more. Feed your brain with knowledge and you will undoubtely thrive. One last thing: meditate. Even one minute a day will make a difference in your mood.
Positive Mindset
What you think, you become. This is one of my all-time favourite Buddha quotes. It is so true and it is our thoughts that can really make or break us. Thoughts become things, so think good things. Always.
Get Outside
Nature has a wonderful way of making things better. Being outside taking in fresh air has a way of grounding us. It is one of the easiest ways to boost your mood.
Pay it Forward
Simple acts of kindness can change someone’s day or even save someone’s life. There are so many ways to do a good deed without having to do much. Hold the door open, pay for someone’s coffee, volunteer your time, help the elderly, or donate. These are just a few ways to pay it forward, but the list is endless.
Keep these tips in mind as you go through your day and practice these steps as often as you can. Living a happier life is a lot easier to achieve than we all think.
Photography by Jeremie Dupont