Cliff Arnall, the man behind the infamous “most depressing day of the year” equation, has a second equation that states today is the happiest day of the year.
It’s on the front of the Telegraph, been given Radio 4 coverage, and who knows where else it will be covered by the end of the day.
If you’re not happy for any reason whatsoever, a total stranger telling you you should be rarely improves matters.
They say happiness is a choice. If so, why do many of us find it hard to be happy? That’s because like all the best things in life, achieving happiness also requires commitment, practice and focus.
Let me share with you some tips on how to be happier.
The Ingredients for the Happiness Recipe are:-
optimism
self-confidence
gratitude
hope
compassion
purpose
empathy
—these are all qualities that anyone can own. You just have to learn how. And doing so will change your life:
SAVOUR
Savouring is a quick and easy way to boost optimism and reduce stress and negative emotions. It’s the practice of being mindful and noticing the good stuff around you, taking the extra time to prolong and intensify your enjoyment of the moment, making a pleasurable experience last for as long as possible. So whether it’s preparing a meal, pausing to admire the sunset, or telling a friend your good news—the idea is to linger, take it in, and enjoy the experience. Eventually it’ll become a habit—one you’ll never want to break. Those who regularly and frequently savour are happier, more optimistic and more satisfied with life. We can savour the past (by reminiscing), savour the future (through positive anticipation) or savour the present (by practicing mindfulness). There are many savouring techniques—and you may find that you gravitate towards some, but not others. There are a number of ways to do this, including:-
concentrating fully on whatever activity you are doing
finding the humour in the moment
writing about your experience
GRATITUDE
The simple act of identifying and then appreciating the things people do for us is a modern-day wonder drug. It fills us with optimism and self-confidence, knowing that others are there for us. It dampens our desires for “more” of everything—and it deepens our relationships with loved ones. And when we express our gratitude to someone, we get kindness and gratitude in return.
People have written gratitude letters to someone they’ve never properly thanked, and seen immediate increases in happiness and decreases in depressive symptoms.
The practice of gratitude can increase happiness levels by around 25%.
A few hours writing a gratitude journal over 3 weeks can create an effect that lasts 6 months if not more.
Cultivating gratitude brings other health effects, such as longer and better quality sleep time.
So, in conclusion, you may need to work on all of the above, but know that today is the longest, so go outside and enjoy the daylight and beauty of nature before the nights get longer again!
In my next blog I will be sharing more happiness tips!
Meanwhile listen to……………….
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