The majority of Americans are not experiencing much happiness these days. According to a poll, only 19% of respondents they described themselves as “very happyOther comparable studies also demonstrated low happiness scores. While not surprising given the troubled economy and other concerns, these insights reveal that many people are not reaping the benefits of daily fulfillment.
Happiness has long been associated with many personal and family benefits. When we are happy, we are less likely to be burdened by the destructive effects of stress, such as increased risk of cardiovascular disease. We can too increase our productivitywhich can positively affect our ability to find work and earn promotions.
If you are attracted to the benefits of happiness, you can take steps to cultivate your happiness. Making just a few adjustments to your schedule, activities, and mindset can profoundly affect the joy, peace, and gratitude you experience.
1. Practice being in the moment.
When your mind seems to be racing every minute of the day, it’s hard to feel happy or content. Instead, you are more likely to be overwhelmed by worry and frustration. The solution to controlling your thoughts is to practice mindfulness.
From a broad perspective, mindfulness is living in the present moment. Practicing this helps you stay grounded and enables you to focus on the positive events that are happening. To get started, consider using technology to your advantage. Top free meditation apps like Mindfulness, Smiling Mind, and the Healthy Minds Program can serve as a springboard to improve your ability to stay present and prevent your worries from wandering.
2. Stay connected with others.
Globally, about a quarter of it adults report experiencing loneliness. Isolation and loneliness only worsen the misery. So a key way to break the cycle of unhappiness is to surround yourself with people whose presence lifts you up.
These can be anyone from family members and friends to neighbors or recreational sports teammates. They could also be colleagues. For example, if you usually work from home, consider scheduling in-person or online gatherings with colleagues. You will feel more socially connected and less isolated.
3. Focus on your body.
Neglecting your physical and nutritional well-being will only contribute to your unhappiness. With that in mind, let’s get started. Each day, engage in an activity for at least 30 minutes. Just walking your dog can improve your mood.
In addition to exercise, nourish your body with healthier foods. Too many of us have adopted a fast food, UberEats lifestyle. The less nutritious your meals are, the worse your body will feel. This does not help increase your happiness.
4. Make time for activities you enjoy.
Do you feel like your days and nights are so busy that you never get a chance to take a break? Your busy schedule may be contributing to your lack of fulfillment. Instead of continuing on the same road, slow down. Take a break every now and then and indulge in your favorite hobby.
Do you like to read? Allow yourself to read for at least 15 minutes without interruption before bed. It’s a good way to calm your thoughts and get away from the overstimulation of screens. Are you someone who likes to work with your hands? Take up an activity like woodworking, painting, crocheting or baking. You will experience an endorphin rush from doing something enjoyable.
When you are happy, you can feel better about your life and bring your best self to everything you do. You can also act as a role model of happiness for those around you. So start working right away to find your ‘happy place’. It is beneficial to you and those in your circle of influence.
Mike Szczesny is its owner and vice president EDCO Awards & Specialtiesexclusive supplier of employee identification products, branded merchandise, custom awards, and sports awards. Szczesny prides himself on EDCO’s ability to help companies go the extra mile in showing gratitude and appreciation to their employees. He resides in Fort Lauderdale, Florida.
The post The Science of Happiness: Proven Habits for a Fulfilling Life appeared first on Pick the Brain | Motivation and Self-Improvement.
