I am a cup half full! Always have been, always will be! I irritate my husband, family and colleagues alike with my rose tinted spectacles… but it does take work to find the happy things in life. You’re not born ecstatic at all times and there are somethings that you cannot ever be happy about; however reducing stress and feeling happier directly relates to your health, well-being and your mental endurance.
I’m not saying you should start singing to the flowers or seek out a lifestyle guru to guide you. There are plenty of things we can all do in our day to day lives that can cheer us up and make us feel more positive every day.
Here are 5 things to consider :
#1 Be Grateful
What happened to you today that you can be grateful for? Even the little things can add up. A kind text from your sibling, a smile on the bus or praise from your manager – there will always be something in your day you can be grateful for. Start a routine where you write down what you are grateful for at bed time and over the weeks and months you can see how much happiness and positivity there is around you.
#2 Exercise
Exercise is so beneficial to our outlook; it directly correlates to how you feel inside and out. I’m not saying we all need to be running miles every day but a walk after dinner, catching a yoga class with friends or dancing on a night out will boost your serotonin levels and make you feel amazing. Exercise is a real stress buster and combining it with friends gives you a double up on happiness.
#3 Keep Inspiration to Hand
There are plenty of books out there to inspire: a hero’s biography, a spiritual book or a favourite novel; but not just that, you can gain inspiration from Instagram, a podcast, your favourite blogger, the opportunities are endless. Remember not to compare yourself to them though, it is about inspiration not affirmation. I listen to music to inspire me and have it on whenever I can, while working, driving, at home it is all around me and always cheers me up.
#4 Give Yourself a Break
No matter how much you pack into a day, there are never enough hours. It’s a busy world, accept it and give yourself a break. As long as you try your best every day you can stay happy knowing you gave it your all and no-one (not even yourself) could ask for any more. A key to long-term contentment perhaps?
#5 Meditate
Trying not to sound clichéd here! Meditation isn’t for everyone but there are plenty of forms out there so at least one will suit you – keep trying until you find it. Traditional meditation isn’t my cup of tea, but I am a massive fan of yoga which is my form of meditation. You could lay down and just listen to your favourite song, practice breathing deeply while watching TV, going to a relaxed stroll to the park, there is plenty you can do to just slow down a little and reconnect with yourself.
Everyone is different and have their own ways of cheering themselves up and I would love to hear yours, you can also inspire me!
