Welcome to a treasury of wisdom and science-backed insights, a compilation of actionable tips on how to unlock the gates to improve happiness. This list is cultivated through the realms of positive psychology and the study of happiness. Enjoy these 50 practical and transformative tips to infuse your days with positivity, gratitude, and purpose. Whether you’re seeking to cultivate mindfulness, strengthen connections, or embrace self-compassion, these guiding stars will illuminate your path to improve happiness.
Tips on Using the Tips
I know you’re probably eager to read the list of ways to improve your happiness – and may have already skipped to it – but take a quick…
It’s super easy to let your eyes quickly dart over a list such as this as your brain does the “I already know that” or “I’ve already tried that” thang.
I invite you to read the list with curiosity. Imagine you are reading it through the eyes of a child, or at least someone who hasn’t learned about happiness, or unhappiness.
Savor each item on the happiness list. Take time to let your mind linger in the possibility of each item. What would it look like? What would it feel like?
Go through the list and highlight the items that jump out at you as definite YESes, making note of the ones that are exciting and tickle your nerves. Any item that sparks a tingly, warm, or joyful feeling will be one you are more likely to enjoy. And, that is the point, isn’t it?
Once you’ve identified the items that spark the most joy, pick ONE to start with. And pursue it with all your senses. Then follow the steps below to make the most of it.
- Read the one item. Several times. Close your eyes and connect with it. Breathe it in on the inhale, and breathe out anything that doesn’t align with it on your exhale. Notice what you see, feel, hear, taste, smell. Connect to your senses and your body.
- Think and/or write about what specifically comes to mind as you envision implementing the item. What could you do? When? Who else could be involved? Think of different possibilities for that one item. Brainstorm. For each idea, note what it would look like and feel like to act on it. Choose one idea.
- Act on that one idea. Do it sooner, rather than later. Do it today. Do it now. Don’t overthink it. Just do it, imperfectly if needed. Note how you feel before doing it, while doing it, and after doing it. Notice any differences in thoughts, self-talk, and feeling.
- Now, rinse and repeat. You may choose to act on a different idea from the same item OR move to a different item on the list. Then rinse and repeat the steps above.
Tips to Improve Happiness
- Invest in experiences over material possessions to cultivate lasting joy and create cherished memories.
- Align your activities with your values and contribute to a greater purpose to find fulfillment and purpose in life.
- Foster positive emotions like gratitude, joy, and optimism to enhance overall well-being.
- Be fully present in the moment, free yourself from past regrets and future worries, and find tranquility in the simplicity of the present.
- Nurture meaningful relationships with family and friends, as they contribute significantly to long-term happiness.
- Let go of the pursuit of perfection and celebrate failures as learning experiences, valuing the quirks that make you unique.
- Prioritize meaningful activities over constant busyness, giving yourself the space to savor life’s small pleasures.
- Regularly jot down things you are grateful for to cultivate a sense of appreciation and positivity.
- Practice kindness towards to boost happiness and foster a sense of interconnectedness.
- Find activities that absorb your attention and immerse yourself in them.
- Acknowledge and celebrate even the smallest achievements as they contribute to a sense of accomplishment.
- Cultivate an optimistic outlook by focusing on positive possibilities and reframing setbacks as opportunities for growth.
- Ensure sufficient rest, engage in physical activity, and maintain a healthy lifestyle to support overall happiness.
- Take time to ponder on your life’s purpose, goals, and values, allowing for self-discovery and personal growth.
- Offer undivided attention and active listening to strengthen your connections with others.
- Dedicate time for activities that bring you joy and relaxation.
- View challenges as opportunities to learn and grow.
- Develop resilience in the face of adversity.
- Avoid comparing yourself to others, and instead, focus on your personal growth and progress.
- Relish life’s pleasant moments, savoring positive experiences to enhance happiness.
- Spend time with optimistic and uplifting people who radiate positivity.
- Release grudges and practice forgiveness, freeing yourself from emotional burdens.
- Savor the flavors and textures of your food, paying attention to each bite.
- Embrace your artistic side through writing, painting, or any creative outlet you enjoy.
- Give back to the community and help others to bring a sense of fulfillment.
- Set boundaries on social media to prevent comparison and negative impact on well-being.
- Spend time outdoors connecting with nature’s beauty and tranquility.
- Seek out humor and laughter to instantly boost your mood.
- Incorporate deep breathing exercises to reduce stress and anxiety.
- Challenge yourself with a new hobby or skill that interests you.
- Don’t just write in your gratitude journal, express your thankfulness to others directly.
- Maintain a tidy environment to contribute to a clearer mind and improved mood.
- Create a relaxing bedtime routine to improve sleep quality.
- Break larger goals into smaller, achievable steps to maintain motivation and a sense of progress.
- Use setbacks as opportunities for growth and learning.
- Be mindful of the media you consume and balance it with positive content.
- Interact with animals to promote feelings of happiness while reducing stress.
- Surprise others with acts of kindness to brighten their day.
- When facing difficulties, focus on what you are grateful for to maintain perspective.
- Know when to say no to commitments that drain your energy.
- Replace negative thoughts with positive affirmations and encouraging self-talk.
- Visualize your goals and aspirations by creating a collage of inspiring images.
- Incorporate meditation or mindfulness practices into your daily routine.
- Prioritize quality time with family and friends to strengthen relationships.
- Enjoy music that resonates with your emotions and boosts your mood.
- Allow yourself time to relax and recharge during busy days.
- Engage in activities that bring out your inner child and promote joy.
- Appreciate life’s simple pleasures, like a warm cup of coffee/tea or a beautiful sunset.
- Truly listen to others without judgment or interruption.
- Look for humor in everyday situations, even during mundane tasks.
- Build a network of supportive friends and family who lift you up.
- Regularly review your accomplishments and strengths.
- Treat yourself with the same kindness you show to others.
- Release the need for control and embrace uncertainty with grace.
- Put yourself first and practice self-care without feeling guilty.
Did you like these tips? Stay tuned for an article series all about improving happiness. We’ll demystify happiness and explore the barriers that stand in our way, embrace our imperfections, and embrace the Yale way to bliss.
If you need support to improve your happiness, I’d be happy to provide a consult to see how I might be able to help. You can book that here. For those living in Arizona, I offer individual and group counseling. For those living anywhere, I provide educational, supportive, and experiential wellness services.
