There’s a fine line between letting life happen to you and creating your own happiness.
The difference is in the daily habits. Letting life happen is a passive approach. But creating your own happiness? That’s an active pursuit, a conscious choice you make every day.
People who create their own happiness aren’t just lucky. They’re proactive. They follow certain daily practices that set them up for a happier life.
So, what’s their secret? Let’s delve into the 8 daily practices commonly followed by those who choose to create their own happiness.
1) Daily gratitude
It’s no secret, gratitude plays a key role in our level of happiness.
And those who create their own happiness? They know this all too well.
Gratitude isn’t just about saying thank you. It’s about truly appreciating the good in our lives, even when times are tough.
Instead of focusing on what they lack, happy people choose to recognize what they already have. They take time every day to reflect on their blessings, big or small.
But here’s the kicker – gratitude isn’t only beneficial for the person feeling grateful. It’s also contagious!
Think about it. When you express your gratitude to someone else, it uplifts their mood too. They, in turn, are more likely to pass it on.
So, want to create your own happiness? Start by cultivating a daily gratitude practice. It’s a simple yet powerful way to foster positivity and joy in your life. And remember, sincerity is key. Be genuine in your appreciation if you want it to have a real impact on your happiness.
2) Regular exercise
I’ve always heard about the benefits of regular exercise, but it wasn’t until I made it a part of my daily routine that I really understood its power.
Exercise isn’t just about physical health, it’s a crucial component for mental wellbeing too. It releases endorphins, the body’s natural mood boosters, and helps you feel more energized and alert.
I started with just 10 minutes of walking a day. It didn’t seem like much, but it was a start. Gradually, I increased that time and incorporated different forms of exercise like yoga and cycling.
And guess what? I noticed a significant uplift in my mood. On days when I’d exercise, I’d feel more positive, more capable. It was a fantastic feeling! This little change in my routine had such a profound impact on my overall outlook.
Now, exercise is no longer an option for me, but an essential part of my day. Believe me when I say that it’s one of the best decisions I’ve made for my happiness. So if you’re looking to create your own happiness, regular exercise is a great place to start!
3) Mindful eating
Mindful eating is a practice where you pay full attention to the experience of eating and drinking, both inside and outside the body. It’s about noticing the colors, smells, flavors, and textures of your food; chewing slowly; getting rid of distractions; and learning to cope with guilt and anxiety about food.
But here’s something you might not know – a study published in the Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism found that when people ate a meal mindfully – that is, they paid attention to their food and savored the experience – they ended up consuming fewer calories at their next meal.
So, mindful eating not only allows you to enjoy your food more but can also contribute to maintaining a healthy weight. And we all know how closely our physical health is related to our happiness. So the next time you sit down for a meal, try practicing mindful eating. Not only will you enjoy your food more, but it could also have a positive impact on your overall happiness.
4) Embracing imperfections
Nobody’s perfect! We all have our flaws and make mistakes. But those who create their own happiness? They’ve learned to embrace their imperfections.
Rather than dwelling on their shortcomings, happy people accept them as part of who they are. They understand that flaws are what make us human, unique, and real.
Instead of striving for perfection, they aim for progress. They focus on personal growth and learning from their mistakes. This way, they turn weaknesses into opportunities for improvement.
Embracing your imperfections doesn’t mean ignoring areas that need improvement. It means recognizing your weaknesses, accepting them, and focusing on your strengths.
So the next time you find yourself beating up over a mistake or a flaw, remember to be kind to yourself. Accept your imperfections. They are what make you uniquely you. And in that acceptance, you might just find a greater level of happiness.
5) Connecting with others
We’re social creatures by nature. Deep down, we all yearn for meaningful connections with others.
People who create their own happiness understand the value of these connections. They make time for their loved ones and foster relationships that bring joy and support into their lives.
But it’s not just about spending time with others. It’s about truly connecting with them – sharing experiences, listening attentively, expressing compassion, and offering help when needed.
There’s something incredibly fulfilling about sharing a part of your life with someone else. It creates a sense of belonging and can significantly boost your happiness.
So reach out to an old friend, spend quality time with your family, or lend a helping hand to a neighbor. The happiness you get from connecting with others is truly one of a kind. It’s not just about making others happy; it’s about creating your own happiness too.
6) Practicing self-care
There was a time when I found myself constantly feeling drained, both physically and emotionally. I was always taking care of others, often at the expense of my own needs.
Then I realized, I can’t pour from an empty cup.
Self-care became a crucial part of my everyday life. It wasn’t selfish; it was necessary. It’s about taking the time to do things that recharge and rejuvenate you.
For me, self-care includes reading a book, taking a long bath, meditating, or simply spending time in nature. These activities help me relax and refresh my mind and body.
Remember, self-care is not a luxury but a necessity for your mental wellbeing and happiness. It’s an essential practice for creating your own happiness. So, whatever it is that recharges your batteries, make sure to carve out time for it regularly.
7) Setting personal boundaries
Setting personal boundaries is about understanding and communicating your limits to others. It’s an essential aspect of self-care and healthy relationships.
Often, we hesitate to set boundaries for fear of upsetting others. But remember, it’s okay to say no when something doesn’t align with your values or disrupts your peace of mind.
People who create their own happiness understand the importance of setting and respecting boundaries. They know it’s vital for maintaining their emotional health and overall wellbeing.
So don’t hesitate to set your own boundaries. It’s not about being selfish; it’s about respecting yourself. And remember, those who respect you will respect your boundaries too.
8) Living in the present
The past is gone, and the future is uncertain. All we truly have is the present.
People who create their own happiness understand this well. They make the most of each moment, appreciating what they have right here, right now.
Living in the present means fully engaging with what’s happening around you. It’s about embracing each experience, each emotion, and each interaction as it comes.
So let go of past regrets and future worries. Embrace the now. It’s the only moment guaranteed to you. And it’s in this very moment that happiness is truly found.
Final thoughts: Happiness is an inside job
At the heart of it all, creating your own happiness is an inside job. It’s about cultivating a mindset that embraces positivity, gratitude, self-care and mindfulness.
While external circumstances can influence our mood, true happiness comes from within. It’s about how we choose to react to what life throws at us.
A quote from Abraham Lincoln sums it up well, “Folks are usually about as happy as they make their minds up to be.”
These 8 practices are not a magic formula, but they offer a roadmap to help steer your life towards greater happiness and fulfillment. Remember, it’s not a destination to reach, but a journey to enjoy.
So, take a moment to reflect. Which of these practices resonates with you the most? How can you incorporate them into your daily life?
Remember, the power to create your own happiness lies in your hands. So why not start today?
