Everybody wants it but nobody is certain how to get it. Studying the habits of truly happy people may shed some light on the subject; so let’s try and find an answer.
Nobody knows for certain what the secret to happiness is but some claim that it’s a skill like any other life skill and that it can be mastered. Recent Positive Psychology studies about the science of happiness also seem to point out that specific ways of thinking and acting can strongly impact our sense of wellbeing and happiness.
According to Positive Psychology expert, Martin Seligman, 60% of our happiness is determined by our genetics and environment while the remaining 40% is up to us. The happiest people are those who have discovered their own strengths and virtues and then use these for a purpose that is greater than their own personal goals, he says. Happy people:
- Build and nurture relationships. They have one or up to five, maybe six, close friends that they can bare their souls to and vice versa. They surround themselves with other happy, positive people.
- Have found their “flow” meaning they are deeply involved in trying to reach a goal, or are engaged in an activity that is challenging but well suited to their skills just because they like doing it and it gives them much joy in the doing. It may be anything – sports, playing an instrument, painting, writing, teaching, etc.
- Have found greater meaning in their lives through spiritual and religious practices. Studies back this up.
- Count their blessings daily. Studies have shown that grateful people have more positive emotions, a greater sense of belonging and a lower incidence of depression and stress.
- Are quick to forgive and forget. They don’t hold grudges because they know that holding onto resentment, anger, hurt and other negative emotions will mar their happiness.
- Regard their problems as challenges or as opportunities to learn new skills and wisdom that will change their lives for the better. They don’t sweat the small stuff!
- Dream big. When you dream big you’re opening your mind to a more optimistic, positive state where you have the power to achieve virtually anything you desire.
- Live in the present and avoid constantly replaying past negative events in their heads or worrying about the future.
- Don’t compare themselves to others and don’t need their approval either. They do not allow others to dictate the way they should live.
- Choose to follow a healthy lifestyle by exercising and eating the right food, getting enough sleep and enough fresh air and sun exposure.
To follow these steps takes two things: attitude and action! So, do give it a try. Learn to make yourself happy − live, laugh and then embrace being a happy individual!
Sources
Mercola, J. 22 Habits of happy people. Retrieved from: http://www.hungryforchange.tv/article/22-habits-of-happy-people
The persuit pf happiness: bringing the science of happiness to life. Retrieved from: http://www.pursuit-of-happiness.org/science-of-happiness/