I’ve written 10 books on happiness—here are 5 tiny habits that make me feel happier and healthier every day

I’ve written 10 books on happiness—here are 5 tiny habits that make me feel happier and healthier every day

I know I post a lot about happiness.

And I know a lot of what I post about happiness is repetitive.

That’s mostly because (1) there’s no magic or secrets to this happiness thing, it’s mostly a matter of doing what we know we should do, which means (2) it’s always good to be reminded of what’s important and of what works.

So, for some great reminders of some simple but effective happiness boosting strategies, read on …

via CNBC by Neil Pasricha

The news is full of reasons why so many Americans feel unhappy: social media addictions, economic fears, climate change and the decline of social trust, just to name a few.

But we rarely talk about reasons to be happy. As a New York Times best-selling author, podcaster and speaker focused on intentional living, I want to change that.

I’ve written 10 books and journals on happiness, gratitude, habits and resilience that share how to cultivate a positive mindset amidst chaos.

Here are five research-backed practices I do every day to feel happier:

1. I wake up and look at my ‘ikigai.’

Ikigai is a Japanese word that roughly translates to “the reason you get out of bed each morning.”

Every night, my wife and I write down our ikigai on a blank index card. We fold them in half and set them up like tents on our bedside table. It serves as a north star and helps us wake up with a sense of purpose.

Sometimes I’ll feel lofty (“Helping people live happy lives”), or laser-focused (“Finish writing the next chapter of my book”). Other days, I’ll try to neutralize my morning anxiety (“You have enough”).

2. I walk three miles a day.

Physical activity boosts happiness, studies show. I choose walking because it’s good for your health and improves creativity. Another benefit: it brings out my inner birder.

The average walking speed is about three miles per hour, so taking just one of my meetings while walking gets three miles in. Since I’m not surrounded by screens, I’m more focused, too.

For inspiration, I recommend the essay “Walking” by Henry David Thoreau…

… keep reading the full & original article HERE