Happiness: a mental or emotional state of well-being. For each of us, happiness is defined in a unique way but the latest research shows that certain things make us happier than others. Happiness doesn’t come from shopping or travelling. We won’t become happy from getting rich or having a large house and 2 cars.
What are some of the keys to happier living?
- Giving. This doesn’t necessarily mean giving gifts or anything of monetary value. It involves giving of ourselves and our time. Helping others in any way that we can or giving of our knowledge, volunteering; these are all ways of giving.
- Relating. Connecting with other people through friendship or social activities is relating. So is spending time with our families or having a discussion online or on the telephone. Anything that causes interaction between 2 or more people is relating.
- Exercising. We’ve long known that we need to move more than we have been. Taking care of our bodies not only helps our physical state but it improves our mental and emotional well-being. Those who exercise more tend to have lower rates of anxiety and depression.
- Awareness. Live life mindfully by focusing on what you are doing at any given time. Try to silence that little voice in your head that is constantly telling you how you should be or feel. Concentrate on your actions and what is going on around you. Pay attention to your surroundings.
- Trying out. Keep learning new things. Knowledge has always been high on the list of what makes people happy. For centuries, people worked at attaining knowledge. Our modern world has us focusing more on information and less on learning. What is knowledge? A practical understanding of something through both experience and education.
Most of us wish to attain happiness but many of us go about it in the wrong way. The International Day of Happiness is March 20th this year. To read more about happiness and the other 5 keys to happier living, click here.
