Happiness is a skill which means we can all practise and improve it. Just as it is important to keep our homes free of clutter so we feel we have some control over our lives; it is just as important to declutter our minds too. This way we have more chance of feeling happy, instead of feeling down.
So here are 16 simple ways to help you put a smile on your face when you are feeling down and negative.
1. Time to get moving
Any form of exercise has a fantastic effect on lifting your mood. A brisk walk, aerobics, dancing, the list is endless.
2. I will join in
Getting together with a group is the single most useful thing we can do to increase our happiness. Social clubs, shared hobbies, voluntary organisations all help to bring us together with others. Years of friendship and a sense of belonging will be formed.
3. I will keep busy
Its a universal law that the more goals we take on, the greater likelihood of success. Optimists involve themselves more in the world because they think their enthusiasm will pay off. This is exactly what happens. So learn to be more optimistic and reap the benefits.
4. I will move on
Don't dwell on the past unless you are reminiscing on the good times. If you dwell on the negatives you are on the road to depression and this is best avoided by making it a no - go area and distracting yourself whenever it tries to intrude. Just say to yourself something like: Im too busy today to feel down, go away. Try it! It really does work and also works if you suffer from panic attacks. You can just tell your brain that you are far too busy for any such nonsense today.
5. I will turn off the television
There is a very easy difference we can make in our lives and that is to turn the telly off! Less television and more activity! In the Autumn when the dark nights are drawing in, in the Winter when its cold and dark, you could get the games out, have a laugh and have some fun! Then when Spring and Summer arrives when is it better to swop the tv for some fresh air.
6. Hear the laughter again
It is a well-known fact that laughter is a definate must in your life. Laughter is one of the most important and necessary ingredients in a happy and healthy life. Try to make sure you have a good laugh every day, surround yourself with friends who make you laugh. Laughter is so effective because it releases tension.
7. Be more flexible
Try to be flexible when planning future events and when you respond to situations. Things start to go pear shaped when we are stuck in our ways and closed off to new experiences.
8. Have an early night
Sleep is non-negotiable. This is when the brain and body do their most important work so we really should ensure that we have enough sleep. Not having enough sleep has been strongly linked to irritability, dangerous driving, poor self-control and excessive eating.
9. Take up dancing
Dancing is a fantastic way to help you feel better. It brings together enthusiastic people, music and exercise. A great combination! Or, when home, stick on a cd and dance away!
10. Indulge in your daydreams
You dont need to ignore your daydreams. Put some positive energy into some sort of activity that just might quench your need for something you have been dreaming about.
11. Choices, choices, choice
It seems that today we are asked to make so many choices for absolutely everything from what to drink to which cereal or loaf of bread to buy. Try not to be overwhelmed by this.
12. Try to settle for good enough
This is often the clever choice because it then leaves you free to spend valuable time thinking about the more important choices that you have to make in life.
13. Thinking young and staying young
Most of us would like to stay young and youthful. Our attitude to life is what is important here. Being youthful is all about attitude to life, and has nothing to do with being young. When others say we look younger than our years it could be that they notice how we are cheerful and optimistic, this gives us that spring in our step. We need to try to be adaptable in our thoughts and the way we act. If we act more positively then this will have an important effect on our health and how we look and feel to ourselves and others.
14. Step back and see the whole picture
Try to take a step back and see the bigger picture, rather than being caught up in all the details. This is important when you are dealing with situations that are difficult. Maturity does not come with age, we have to earn it.
15. Focus on the problem and resolve it
Perhaps many of us can identify with this one; when you are having an argument with a partner try to focus on the problem itself and dont get into the habit of blaming the whole person. Problems can be resolved and communication is the key. At times it may be best to let things go as your relationship is far more important than being in a constant battle with one another all the time.
16. Give of yourself
This has got to be one of the most satisfying things we can do to achieve a sense of purpose in life. Thinking that we are a part of something much bigger than just ourselves and our own world gives us that unbelievable feeling.
Realise that today is a gift, that is why it is called the 'present'.
Copyright 2007 Ayla Hasso BA(Hons) P.G.C.E. DipTEFL.
Ayla lives in London, UK. She is a teacher and more recently the author of 'Your Unique Guide On How To Organize, Declutter & Simplify Your Life'; where she examines the emotional side of clutter as well as many great tips on how to get your home and family sorted once and for all. Visit http://www.organize-declutter.com and sign up for her free declutter tips newsletter.
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