1. BE GRATEFUL! “You’ll find you shift your overall outlook on life when you come form a perspective of gratitude”. No matter what is happening in your life, there is always something to be happy and thankful for. This can be as simple as making a list of just 3 things you are grateful for everyday. A good idea is to recite at least 10 reasons why you’re grateful for your job – look for unexpected surprises such as ‘a beautiful view out of my office window’ or ‘pleasant people to eat lunch with’.
2. EXERCISE! It may come as no surprise to you all, that regular exercise is a proven mood booster – so if you’re not being active for your physical health DO IT FOR YOUR MENTAL HEALTH! Studies have even confirmed that just 30 minutes of exercise per day for 16 weeks is as effective as prescribed medication for people with mild/ moderate depression. Even if you don’t suffer from depression, the release of endorphins will increase your overall happiness and carry over into all other areas of your life.
3. TAKE DAILY RISKS. There’s no doubt that having a routine is important, but this may mean you could get stuck in a rut – which could lead you to not grow. Taking risks can be healthy and rewarding. Stepping out of your comfort zone once in a while can help you develop and grow as a person in many ways.
4. SURROUND YOURSELF WITH POSITIVE PEOPLE AND SCENTS/ SOUNDS! Our surroundings can affect our well- being. We are responsible for our own happiness so why not surround yourself with the right type of people, rather than people that might hold you back. A positive feeling can also be created at home with scents like essential oils that have different affects like calming you down and increasing happiness (e.g lemon, peppermint or lavender). Listening to music or taking some time out to meditate to soothing sounds, depending what you’re in the mood for can also be great.
5. MINDFULNESS! Learning mindfulness allows us to stay present in the moment. Mental activities like meditation can actually change our brain. If you aren’t practising mindfulness and want to bring positive psychology into your life, mindfulness is a wonder tool that doesn’t have to be too complicated. This can also be as simple as being mindful about what you are doing in this moment like being mindful when you eat, when you talk to friends or when you see a beautiful sunset.
