5 Things You Can Do To Feel Happier With Each Passing Day

1. Practice gratitude.

Identify one thing every day that you are grateful for. Create a gratitude journal and write in it daily; or if journaling isn’t for you, then voice your gratitude out loud (whether it be to someone else or when you’re alone in the car on your drive home from work). Appreciate the big and small. Gratitude is the key that opens up the gateway to a happier life. There is always something to be grateful for.

2. Be mindful.

Don’t live your life robotically, moving from one task to the next. When you are doing something, engage in it fully. When you are with someone, be fully present. Pay close attention to the things you’re doing and all that is going on around you. Notice what you hear, what you smell, what you see, and so on and so forth. Live fully in the present moment. When your mind starts to drift away from the task at hand, mindfully come back to the now and focus on your sensations. You can live in your head or you can actually live — the choice is yours.

3. Do something you enjoy.

Each and every day, do something nice for yourself. Designate a special time just for YOU. I know life can be busy, so start start off slow, by giving yourself just 10 to 15 minutes daily to practice self-care. Think about what truly makes you happy and do it. Despite what your mind may be telling you, taking time for yourself is not selfish. It’s selfless. It’s only when we begin to take better care of ourselves, that we can begin to fully sympathize with others.

4. Make someone else’s day.

I am a firm believer that what we put out in the universe flows back to us in return. It doesn’t have to be a grandiose act in order to count; the little things add up. Hold the door open at the store, let someone merge over when you’re stuck in traffic, pay for the car behind you when you’re getting your morning coffee, make a sincere compliment. The ways you can brighten another person’s day are numerous. And doing something nice for someone else makes us feel good inside too — it’s a win-win.

5. Focus on holistic health.

Nourish your mind, body, and spirit. When you notice negative thoughts flooding your mind, replace them with positive affirmations. Remind yourself of all of your positive qualities and achievements. Take care of your body by eating healthy foods, drinking plenty of water, and moving. Sound nutrition can actually improve your mood. Feed your spirit with prayer or meditation — give yourself a few moments of silence to connect with your heart. The mind, body, and spirit are intertwined; give them each the care they deserve.