“Happiness is the meaning and the purpose of life, the whole aim and end of human existence.” – Aristotle
It’s safe to say that we all could use a little more happiness in our lives. We spend so much time searching for this seemingly elusive feeling but usually come up empty-handed. So, how can we move into a place of bliss and freedom? With a new car? A bigger house? Material things may make you feel good for a bit, but true happiness is rooted in the simple things. If you spend time appreciating the gifts you have right now rather than wishing you had more, happiness will find its way to you. Read on for eight simple strategies for your happier, more fulfilling life.
- Dream big. Dreams propel us forward. They enliven our heart, awaken our mind, and give us reasons for living. Allow yourself to dream big and trust that it can become a reality for you.
- Take time to re-charge. Although we live in a society that drives us to do more, be more, give more, and have more, we need time to re-charge. Take short breaks and maybe even a power nap. You likely plan for everything else, so make sure you plan for some downtime.
- Forgive and forget. Holding a grudge does more harm to your than to the person you’re holding it against. Ask yourself, “What would it take for me to let go of the past?” and notice how you much better you feel when you let go of your anger for a few seconds. Focus on a bright future and life becomes much more enjoyable.
- Get closer to Mother Nature. A large amount of research suggests that there’s a strong relationship between feeling connected to nature and a variety of desirable outcomes including satisfaction with life, closer relationships with others, self-acceptance, and overall happiness. Spending time in nature can be very refreshing and renewing, especially when you’re living in an artificial, manmade world. Take a walk, have dinner al fresco, or simply relax in the park. However you choose to embrace the great outdoors, you’ll be happier for it.
- Volunteer your time helping others. We create much of our own unhappiness by dwelling on ourselves and our own problems. One easy fix for this is to give back to our world so that we can become a little less burdened by ourselves, and help others along the way.
- Make time to play. Achievement isn’t an obligation. You’re not here to complete a to-do list or to fix what’s broken. Find time for fun every day and make it non-negotiable.
- Invest in memories, not things. Material items might satisfy you short term, but experiences are what make you happy long term. The happiest people distance themselves from buying things and, instead, they invest in rich experiences that they can cherish for a lifetime.
- Be thankful. When you think of all you have to be grateful for, you realize how blessed you already are. It’s easy to take things for granted—a roof over your head, loved ones, plenty of food to eat. By appreciating the things you already have, you’ll begin to feel happier in your life.
The pursuit of happiness is good for your health and it improves every facet of your life. If you want more happiness in your life, then pursue it with passion. What’s holding you back?