23 Nov Habits for happiness
The title to this blog post is one that’s close. to my heart. I’ve written a whole series of “habits” audiobooks for Audible.
If you’re a member / subscriber, they’re all FREE. Either way, check out “Habits for Happiness”, “Habits for Happiness at Work”, “Habits for Action” and more…
But this post isn’t just about my publications; it’s about sharing a cool article that includes 30 happiness habits recommended by some truly happy people; from all over the world …
via Parade by Lisa Mulcahy
Over the course of the COVID-19 pandemic, we’ve all found it tough to find our joy at times—and that’s OK. There’s been a lot of bad news, loss, and lack of social connection due to the nature of the virus.
“Humans are social creatures, and feeling a sense of belonging and connection to others is thought to be a fundamental psychological need,” says Dr. Lora Park, PhD., associate professor of psychology at the University at Buffalo, SUNY. “Anything we can do to strengthen our social bonds can boost our happiness.”
And there’s a lot we can do to be proactive about our happiness. “Dr. Sonja Lyubomirsky, a psychology expert, wrote that ‘50 percent of individual differences in happiness are governed by genes, 10 percent by life circumstances, and the remaining 40 percent by what we do and how we think’—that is, our intentional activities and strategies,” says Park. “40% of our happiness is shaped by how we think about the events in our daily lives and what we decide to do on a daily basis. We have more control than we may think; we can make small changes every day to reliably improve our happiness.”
Habits of the world’s happiest people
They practice gratitude
“Think about or write down something you are grateful for daily,” says Diana Cusumano, LMHC, NCC, director of The JED Foundation Campus & Wellness Initiatives in New York City. “It doesn’t need to be something big, but can be something that you feel went well that day. Doing this on a regular basis will cultivate feelings of joy, and if done daily for a month’s time can help change your perspective on your day-to-day life.”
They express appreciation
“Thank someone publicly that you haven’t thanked before,” says Parks.
They spend time in nature
Based on numerous research studies and surveys, Finland is considered the “happiest country in the world.” A recent study from the University of Helsinki found a big reason why young Finnish people are so content: they make a point of spending time enjoying the great outdoors. Interestingly, one of the activities that seem to bring the most joy for them is picking berries and mushrooms, although any kind of outside recreation you really love is bound to lift your mood.
They spend quality time with their family and friends
“Whether you’re having a virtual Zoom gathering, or even just texting, calling, or emailing someone can all be ways that we can stay socially connected to others, which can boost people’s feelings of happiness by reminding them of their importance,” says Parks.
They preserve work-life balance
In Denmark, another country considered to be filled with joyful people, working overtime is not the norm. According to data from the city of Copenhagen, Danish people generally work only 37 hours a week over five days. Finding ways to lighten your schedule, through working from home, job sharing, or even switching to a more flexible career, can have a bigger payoff than your current salary if it gives you peace of mind.
They practice self-compassion
“Being kind to oneself creates a compassion container,” Cusamano explains. This can mean taking time for yourself, using kind language towards yourself, and learning what helps you to feel rested and soothed.”
Your bubble bath is calling…
… keep reading the full & original article HERE