We’ve all experienced those times in our lives when things just don’t seem to be going the way we want.
Credit: Temecula Wellness Center
Throughout time, positive and negative forces have constantly battled – and you have the choice of which energy to harness.
When we think of happiness, we imagine every aspect of your life being perfect and requiring little effort, but in reality it’s a balancing act.
Happiness is really just being satisfied with the life you are living.
If you are currently stuck in a melancholy rut, or are just looking to improve your lifestyle, try taking these eight steps towards happiness:
Gratitude
Start off the day by reminding yourself of all those special possessions and people in your life. Every morning when you wake up, have a nice stretch. Lay there for a bit, meditating on things you truly appreciate. Strive to see the glass as half full; rather than half empty. This simple act takes up only a miniscule amount of time in your day and will make you feel happier.
Kindness
In life, you get out of it what you put into it. Why not start a chain reaction of kindness? If you release positive energy into the world, you will get it right back. Do something that is greater than you, something that helps someone else be happy or to suffer less.
Avoid negativity
You know those certain people at work or school who are constantly involved in drama, or pessimistic folks who love nothing more than to bring others down with them. Ditch those people. Delete them from social networking sites or discontinue your association with them. Another part of this step is to resolve conflicts with others; rid your life of any unnecessary stress. Forgive those who have wronged you and move on, even if they never ask for forgiveness. You aren’t doing it for them, but for yourself.
Sign up
It feels good to get involved. Going out and doing something, especially something that benefits others, can help you get out of a slump and make you feel like you have purpose. Consider taking an active role in local city council or in your religious faith. Join social clubs that support causes you are passionate about. Engage in something you strongly believe in brings happiness and a sense of meaning to your life.
Keep it clean
Having a neat and tidy workspace or living space can help you to feel more motivated. Walking into an unkempt room can make you feel glum and lazy. Keeping things in order leads to a clearer, more motivated mind.
Invest time
Take the time to learn new skills and challenge yourself. Play puzzle games to strengthen your brain; read, listen, and adapt to accommodate new ideas and information. Be good to your body with exercise. Getting on a solid exercise routine can help fight depression and your body will thank you. If you still wince at the thought of a workout, try out this next step.
Quiet talk
Some might refer to this as “praying” to your subconscious. Every night, while lying in bed before you fall asleep, ask your subconscious to help you achieve realistic things. This could include: motivation to work out, to excel in school or even to just start thinking more positively. Then, imagine yourself doing and enjoying, those things that you ask for. What you ask for may not happen right away, but if you give it time, and some action, there’s no way you can go wrong with this.
Smile
A genuine smile, especially accompanied by laughter, has the potential to make you and everyone around you feel better. This simple act tells your brain, “Hey! You’re happy!” and in turn, causes it to releases all kinds of natural, feel-good chemicals.
Eliana Christianson is a local writer and new contributor to SWRNN.
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