Happiness is a subjective concept; for some, it’s about having more, while for others, it’s about needing less.
The latter group often exhibits distinct behaviors – subtle signs suggesting they’ve mastered the art of contentment with less. Unraveling these behaviors can provide a fresh perspective on happiness and how to attain it.
In this article, we’ll explore these 9 subtle behaviors typically displayed by people who don’t need much in life to be genuinely happy.
Let’s dive in and learn from their minimalist approach to joy.
1) They practice gratitude
An often-overlooked trait of individuals who are happy with less is their consistent practice of gratitude.
These individuals understand the power of appreciating what they have, rather than focusing on what they don’t. This simple shift in perspective allows them to find happiness in the most minimalistic ways.
Gratitude, in essence, means acknowledging the good in your life. It’s about focusing on the positive aspects and cherishing them.
In the hustle and bustle of our lives, it’s easy to overlook what we already have and constantly chase after ‘more’. But those who truly know how to be happy with less have mastered the art of being grateful for what they have.
This doesn’t mean they don’t aspire for more. Rather, they are content with their current state while still desiring growth. A balance that breeds happiness.
2) They savor the simple moments
Another behavior I’ve noticed in people who are perfectly content with less is their ability to savor simple moments.
I remember an interaction I had with a friend who embodies this idea. We were on a hike, and while I was busy taking photos for social media, she was simply sitting on a rock, eyes closed, soaking up the sun. When I asked what she was doing, she replied, “Just enjoying the moment.”
This made me realize how often I overlook the beauty of the present moment in favor of capturing it for later. It was clear that her approach to life wasn’t about having more; instead, it was about fully experiencing and appreciating what was already there.
People who find happiness in the little things understand that joy doesn’t always come from grand achievements or possessions. Sometimes, it’s found in a quiet moment of peace, a shared laugh, or a beautiful sunset.
These simple yet precious moments become the cornerstones of their happiness. And often, they cost nothing at all.
3) They disconnect to reconnect
In our hyper-connected world, we’re often left feeling more isolated than ever. The constant bombardment of notifications and messages can make us feel overwhelmed and disconnected from our real lives.
People who don’t need much to be happy understand the importance of disconnecting from the digital world to reconnect with their real-world experiences.
Interestingly, a study published in the Journal of Environmental Psychology found that spending just 20 minutes a day in nature can significantly boost vitality levels. This highlights the importance of stepping away from our screens and immersing ourselves in the natural world around us.
These people often prioritize time in nature, meditation, reading, or simply enjoying a cup of tea without any distractions. These moments of disconnection allow them to recharge, refocus, and ultimately find happiness in their own company and the world around them.
4) They practice mindfulness
Mindfulness is another key characteristic of people who require less to be happy. This practice is all about staying present and fully engaged in whatever they’re doing at the moment.
Instead of dwelling on the past or worrying about the future, these individuals focus on the here and now. They recognize that they can’t change what’s already happened, and that the future is not promised. All they truly have is the present moment, and they choose to fully live in it.
Whether it’s eating a meal, having a conversation, or simply taking a walk, they practice mindfulness by fully immersing themselves in the experience. This not only enhances their appreciation for life’s simple pleasures but also promotes a sense of peace and contentment.
5) They value experiences over possessions
People who don’t require much to be happy typically place a greater value on experiences rather than material possessions. They understand that the joy derived from buying a new item is often fleeting, whereas the memories made from an experience last a lifetime.
Whether it’s going for a hike, taking a trip to a new city, or simply enjoying a meal with loved ones, these experiences provide them with a sense of fulfillment and joy that no material item can match.
They invest their time and resources into creating meaningful experiences, knowing that these are the things they’ll remember and cherish in the long run. This shift in priorities allows them to find happiness in the richness of life’s experiences rather than the accumulation of stuff.
6) They cultivate deep relationships
At the heart of a life well-lived and filled with happiness are the deep, meaningful relationships we foster. People who don’t need much to be happy usually invest significant time and energy into cultivating these relationships.
They understand that possessions come and go, but the love, support, and joy derived from close relationships are what truly add richness to life.
These individuals prioritize spending quality time with their loved ones. They cherish moments of shared laughter, heartfelt conversations, and mutual support. They are there during the ups and downs, providing a shoulder to lean on and a listening ear.
This focus on deep relationships provides them with a sense of belonging and love that fuels their happiness. At the end of the day, it’s not about how much we have but who we have in our lives that truly matters.
7) They embrace imperfection
Perfection is an illusion that many of us chase, often leading to stress and dissatisfaction. Those who don’t need much to be happy have a different approach – they embrace imperfection.
I recall a time when I was consumed by this pursuit of perfection. It was exhausting, and no matter how much I achieved, it never seemed enough. Then, I met someone who lived a life of contentment, despite the apparent imperfections. It was eye-opening.
This person taught me that it’s okay to make mistakes, to fail, and to not have everything figured out. Life isn’t about being perfect; it’s about learning, growing and making progress at our own pace.
Embracing imperfection doesn’t mean settling for less. It means acknowledging our flaws and learning from them rather than letting them hold us back. This shift in perspective can lead to an increased sense of contentment and happiness in life.
8) They practice self-care
Self-care is not all about spa days or expensive treats. For those who find happiness with less, it’s about acknowledging their needs and taking the time to fulfill them.
This could be as simple as taking a walk in nature, reading a good book, preparing a healthy meal, or even just taking a few moments to breathe deeply and relax.
People who don’t need much to be happy understand that in order to care for others and meet their responsibilities, they first need to care for themselves. This act of self-love and respect fuels their overall well-being and happiness.
By prioritizing self-care, they ensure that they’re not only physically healthy but also mentally and emotionally balanced. This holistic approach to well-being contributes significantly to their happiness.
9) They live intentionally
Living intentionally is the cornerstone of a life filled with happiness despite having less. It’s about making conscious decisions that align with your values, desires, and goals.
Those who find happiness with less don’t just let life happen to them; they take charge and steer their life in the direction they want it to go. They make deliberate choices about how they spend their time, who they spend it with, and what they choose to pursue.
Living intentionally gives them a sense of control and satisfaction in knowing that they are living a life that is true to who they are. It’s not about having more; it’s about making the most of what you have. This mindful approach to life is what truly allows them to find lasting happiness.
