Society often tells us that happiness comes from finding our soulmate, landing the promotion, affording a dream vacation, et cetera.
However, happiness is an inside job, and that's good news! Because we can develop a more positive outlook on life, no matter our circumstances.
Our friends at Pine Rest make the following suggestions to dial up our good feelings:
Start with a good night's sleep.
"Practicing healthy sleep hygiene causes you to awake with a brighter outlook on the day, keeps you healthy and improves your productivity." —Jean Holthaus, LISW
Schedule time for yourself.
"'Me time' is important for your physical health as well as the health of your significant relationships, mental health and self-esteem. If you fail to care for yourself, you're headed for burn out." – Melissa Vander Laan, CTRS
Stay connected.
"Being a part of a social network provides a sense of belonging and helps reduce feelings of loneliness and isolation." —Diana Ro, PsyD
Get moving.
"Active exercise can improve your mood and outlook. Go for a walk or jog if you are able. Swing the golf clubs. Do whatever activities you enjoy that get you moving." —Mark Eastburg, Ph.D., President & CEO
Reframe your day.
"Every evening ask yourself: 'What was the best part of my day?' This forces you to look for the highlights. The more we look for positives in our lives, the more we find!" —Leslie Visser, MA
Get your groove on.
"Create a playlist of songs that make you feel good. Upbeat music is a sure-fire pick-me-up." —Elizza LeJeune, LMSW
Let it go.
"When we hold on to bitterness and resentments, we are only hurting ourselves. We don't need to deny that we've been hurt and wronged, but we decide we no longer want to be bound to it. Forgiving frees us." —Cal Meuzelaar, LISW
Give it away.
"Whether a smile, compliment, treasure or time, when we give, the reward circuit of our brains is activated leading to happier and more satisfied feelings." —Diana Ro, PsyD
Ask for help when you need it.
"Self-reliance is an admirable trait, but it can limit our ability, too. The most successful people have learned they can't do it all themselves". —Bob VandePol, MSW
For more insights about relationships, life challenges, mental health and more from Pine Rest experts, visit the Pine Rest blog.
Courtesy of Pine Rest.
Photo courtesy of Jutta Kuss.
