We all want to lead as happy lives as we can. There’s little benefit in negative emotions and, often, there are simple changes we can make to our lives that will make all the difference when it comes to our emotional wellbeing. Here are a few that you might like to try out!
Learn to Say No
Many of us always feel pressured to say yes to people’s requests and demands in a bid to help them feel happier and to reduce chances of conflict escalating. Sure, sometimes you will have to do things in life you don’t necessarily want to. But at the end of the day, you do need to put yourself first some of the time and saying no can really help to improve your sense of happiness and wellbeing. Whether that’s saying no to plans, commitments or anything else. It could free up time that can be used to focus on yourself, achieving things you want to achieve or doing things you want to do. Sure, it may feel difficult or awkward at first. People may be put out, as they’re used to you saying yes to whatever they want by now. But they’ll get over it.
Consider Therapy
Some of us will need therapy to process things that have happened to us in our lives and to truly understand and master our own emotions, behaviour and reactions. It can really help to lift weights from our shoulders and to move on with life in a happy and healthy way. There are many forms of therapy out there, ranging for one to one therapy, family therapy, couples therapy or marriage counseling, Advaita Vedanta and more. Do a little research to determine the best course of therapy for you and your needs or preferences.
Exercise
If you don’t want to exercise and it makes you miserable, stick to your recommended one hundred and fifty minutes of moderate aerobic exercise a week. But if you can tolerate or enjoy exercise, try to fit a little more into your schedule. Exercise reduces your body’s production of cortisol (a stress hormone) and can increase production of serotonin (a feel good chemical), so can really help to make you happier!
Don’t Be Afraid to Make Life Changes
If something in your life is making you truly unhappy, chances are there’s something that can be done about it. If you’re unhappy in your relationship, you don’t have to stay in it. If you’re unhappy in your job, you can seek out alternative roles or similar roles in alternative companies. If a friendship is wearing on you, you can step away from it. Life changes may feel daunting. But it’s important you put your happiness at the forefront of your actions and make the necessary changes to put yourself on a better path.
These are just a few steps you can take to make your life a lot happier. Some changes will be immediate. Some will be gradual. Regardless, it’s more than worth trying out!