If you’re like most of us, you want to be happier … right?! The good news is there are some simple practices you can put in place right now to make you happy, and they don’t cost a cent!

Appreciate

True happiness is to enjoy the present, without anxious dependence upon the future, not to amuse ourselves with either hopes or fears but to rest satisfied with what we have, which is sufficient, for he that is so wants nothing. The greatest blessings of mankind are within us and within our reach. A wise man is content with his lot, whatever it may be, without wishing for what he has not. ~Seneca

Taking the time to truly appreciate people for what they have done for you will increase your happiness no end. It strengthens your relationships and draws more positive people to you. Studies have shown that people who consistently show gratitude live a healthier life, don’t have constant ups and downs in emotions and they sleep better.

Give

“Do your little bit of good where you are; it’s those little bits of good put together that overwhelm the world.” ~ Desmond Tutu

Sharing what you have with people who are not as fortunate as you, not only makes them happy, it also helps you to feel happy, abundant and fulfilled. Merely showing simple acts of kindness boosts people’s trust in and love for you. Studies show that those who show kindness felt happier than those who didn’t. The desire to share your time and resources with others starts with acknowledging and appreciating the positive things you have in your life. When you start practicing gratitude consistently, you’ll naturally want to give more.

Empathise

“If you want others to be happy, practice compassion. If you want to be happy, practice compassion.” ~Dalai Lama

Lots of people fail to appreciate the fact that doing something for other people makes you feel good. It releases oxytocin in your body – and oxytocin increases your levels of happiness. Making an effort to consider other people first makes them feel understood & valued. Its a virtuous circle –  making others happy makes you happier. Empathy helps you see people as they are, without colouring them with your own predjudices, biases and frustrations … and we could all do with a little more of that in our lives!

Aspire

“Hope is being able to see that there is light despite all of the darkness.” ~Desmond Tutu

Are you hopeful?  Being hopeful creates a vision for the future in which you know that you are living for a purpose, which brings you a wellspring of ongoing joy. When you aspire to great things, you help others do the same.

Savour

“If you want to conquer the anxiety of life, live in the moment, live in the breath.” ~Amit Ray

Savouring the positive is the best way to free the mind from stress. When you continually place your mind on the good things you have achieved, it increases your happiness levels. This boost makes you more hopeful for greater things to come and also inspires you to do more. Savouring the present moment and all that we have in our lives helps us be the happiest and healthiest us we can be.

Photo by Marcus Dall Col on Unsplash