Discover simple yet effective techniques that will uplift your spirits and help you find greater fulfillment in your daily routine. If you’ve ever wondered about how to boost your happiness in fun and easy ways, here are nine everyday lifestyle habits that are sure to help put a bigger smile on your face, bring you more joy and cultivate well-being.
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How to Boost Your Happiness: 9 Fun & Easy Habits
If you’ve ever wondered how to boost your happiness in your daily routine, we’ve got nine fun and simple habits that you can easily begin incorporating into your life today. Start small and gradually make them a part of your daily routine. Remember, happiness is a journey, not a destination. Daily habits and action steps can make a significant difference in your overall, everyday experience of happiness and joy. Let’s start taking action today and make happiness a priority in our daily routine.
Are you ready to learn more? Read on!
9 Fun and Easy Habits to Boost Your Happiness
Do you ever find yourself wishing for a little more of a happiness boost in your daily life and routine? Well, you’re not alone. We all crave greater fulfillment and contentment at different times. But here’s the thing: happiness isn’t always just something we stumble upon by chance. It’s a mindset and a series of habits that we can cultivate to bring more joy into our regular, everyday lives. In this article, we’re going to explore nine fun and easy lifestyle habits that will not only uplift your spirits but also help you find greater fulfillment in your daily routine. From practicing gratitude to celebrating small wins (and so much more), these techniques are simple yet can be very effective in boosting happiness levels day to day. So, if you’re ready to embark on a journey towards a happier self in day-to-day life, keep reading because we’ve got just the road-map you need with suggestions for fun and easy happiness habits.
Practice Gratitude Daily
Want to know how to boost your happiness in your daily routine? Let’s begin with one of the most important and effective lifestyle habits when it comes to happiness – a daily gratitude practice. A daily habit of practicing gratitude is well-known for its ability to give happiness a boost, by shifting your focus towards the positive aspects of your life. When you actively express gratitude, it trains your brain to recognize and appreciate the good things around you, fostering a more optimistic outlook. It is a shift in mindset and perspective that makes the difference here. Moreover, it helps counteract the natural human tendency to dwell on negative experiences or take positive aspects for granted. It helps to better train your brain in seeing “the glass as half full”.
To incorporate gratitude into your daily routine, start by setting aside a few minutes each day to reflect on the things you are thankful for. Consider keeping a gratitude journal where you write down a list of three to five small things you appreciate or are grateful for. By doing this in the morning (reflecting on the day before), you can set the tone for a happier, more positive day. Or, you might wish to do this in the evening or at night, reflecting on your day. In this case, you are reminded of the day’s positive moments and can fall asleep with a much more uplifted mindset.
Daily Gratitude Practice: It’s the Little Things
Remember, it doesn’t always have to be big things that you are grateful for and add to your gratitude list. Include even the smallest moments in your gratitude journal (for example, a bird landing on your windowsill, the perfect slight breeze or a great cup of coffee with a friend). Sometimes, when you review your day searching for the small things, it can actually make an even bigger difference.
Additionally, you can express gratitude verbally to others or engage in random acts of kindness. You can even listen to a guided gratitude meditation as part of your daily practice. Our favorite way to practice gratitude is writing out a gratitude list in a beautiful journal with a favorite pen. No matter which way you choose to incorporate a gratitude practice into your life, you can cultivate a greater sense of contentment and enhance your overall well-being by practicing consistently. It’s one of the best tips on how to boost your happiness.
Others Benefits of Practicing Gratitude
As we’ve learned, practicing gratitude can have tremendous benefits in boosting your happiness. But did you know that gratitude has been associated with many other important benefits too? Here are just a few other benefits to consider, that have all been linked to gratitude – and in turn, to greater happiness. They are sure to have you inspired and motivated to begin a gratitude practice today.
- Improved mental health (e.g., reduced depression, anxiety and stress).
- Enhanced relationships, social connections, cycles of positivity and kindness with others.
- Better physical health (e.g., improved sleep, blood pressure and immune system).
- Increased self-esteem, less negative self-comparisons and a greater sense of self by recognizing personal strengths and accomplishments.
- Greater resilience, optimism and ability to maintain perspective when faced with setbacks or challenging times.
Gratitude can clearly have far-reaching benefits, positively influencing both your overall level of happiness as well as mental and physical well-being. And so, in asking how to boost your happiness, you may wish to consider starting with a daily gratitude practice. You can also engage in a hobby or activity that you love and brings you great joy. Let’s talk about that next.
Engage in a Hobby or Activity You Love
Alongside cultivating daily gratitude, another powerful habit to boost your happiness is engaging in a hobby or activity that brings you joy. Think about the things you love to do in your free time or even activities that were your favorite as a child – whether it’s painting, playing an instrument, gardening or even just going for a long walk in nature. These activities not only provide an escape from the daily grind but also allow you to tap into your passions and find a sense of fulfillment.
When you engage in activities you genuinely enjoy, you create moments of pure happiness for yourself. These moments become the building blocks of a happier life (and are also the ones that can be perfect to include on your daily gratitude list too). By making time for your hobbies, you are prioritizing yourself and your own well-being and enjoyment. When these things are missing in our daily lives, we are missing opportunities for greater joy. Whether it’s spending an hour knitting or taking a dance class, these activities are not only fun but also contribute to your personal growth and overall happiness.
Be Creative & Explore New Interests
Engaging in a hobby or activity you love also offers a valuable opportunity for self-expression and creativity. As we just hinted at, it can allow you to tap into your inner child and rediscover the joy of pure playfulness. When you immerse yourself in activities that bring you happiness, you enter a state of flow where time seems to stand still, and all worries fade away. It’s like a mini-vacation for your mind and soul, rejuvenating you from the inside out. It’s so important to have a little fun each day, it’s such a great way to put an extra smile on your face before the day is over.
In addition to this, pursuing your passions can also provide a sense of accomplishment, meaning and purpose. As you develop your skills or explore new interests, you gain a sense of mastery and progress. Even if you don’t consider yourself an expert, the act of learning and improving brings a sense of fulfillment and satisfaction. Self growth is a very real path to greater happiness and joy in your daily life. Remember, the journey matters more than the destination, and every step forward is a cause for celebration.
Activities, Hobbies & Relationships
Furthermore, not only do hobbies and activities benefit your individual happiness but they can also enhance your relationships too – which is another important consideration when asking how to boost your happiness. As we’ve discussed, when you engage in something you are passionate about, it naturally brings you joy and excitement. This positive energy then spills over into your interactions with others, making you more present, engaged and a source of positive energy for them too. Sharing your passions with loved ones can deepen your connection and create shared experiences that strengthen your bond, which boosts happiness for everyone. We’ll definitely be talking about this much more soon.
So, whether it’s taking up a new hobby or indulging in an old favorite, make time in your schedule for activities that bring you happiness. They not only offer a much-needed break from the demands of life but also contribute to your overall well-being. Engaging in a hobby or activity you love is a simple yet effective way to infuse more joy into your daily routine and boost your happiness to new heights.
And with that, let’s explore more thoroughly about how embracing an activity that you love can help you connect with friends and loved ones more regularly – another incredible way to boost your day-to-day happiness.
Connect with Loved Ones Regularly
In addition to finding joy in your favorite personal pursuits, it’s so important to nurture and maintain the relationships that bring happiness into your life (and as we’ll see in more detail, these two steps can be combined in a great way). As social being by nature, connecting with loved ones regularly can have a profound impact on your overall well-being. Whether it’s spending quality time with family, catching up with old friends, or making new connections, the bonds we forge with others play an integral role in our daily sense of happiness and fulfillment.
Engaging in Activities with Friends & Family
Engaging in a hobby or activity you love can provide a common ground for connecting with others who share similar interests. Joining clubs, groups, or even online communities centered around your hobby allows you to meet new people and expand your social circle. Connecting with like-minded individuals who are passionate about the same things as you can create a sense of belonging and camaraderie, boosting your happiness further.
As another example, if you love cooking, you can invite friends or family members over for a fun cooking session or host a dinner party where you showcase your culinary skills. This not only allows you to enjoy your hobby but also creates memorable moments with the people you care about. The enthusiasm and joy you bring to the activity will be contagious, fostering a sense of togetherness and happiness.
Greater Support in Challenging Times
Taking the time to connect with loved ones not only allows you to enjoy their company, but it also builds a support system that can provide you with support and solace during more challenging times. The love, laughter and shared experiences that come from nurturing relationships can bring immense joy and a sense of belonging. However, in the hustle and bustle of daily life, it can be easy to overlook the importance of maintaining these connections. This is why dedicating intentional time to connect with loved ones regularly is vital. Not only can this boost your level of overall, daily happiness now, but it can also serve as a protective and supportive measure during the more difficult times in life. That said, it’s something that also helps you to maintain balance, perspective and well-being even when times get tough.
So, make it a point to engage in a hobby or activity you love regularly and get a double benefit by also using it as a common ground to connect with friends and family more often – even to meet new people. Not only will it bring you personal joy and fulfillment, but it will also strengthen your relationships and provide opportunities for new connections. It really is a fun, enriching and even powerful habit to incorporate into your life, by nurturing relationships and boosting your overall level of daily happiness.
Self Care & Taking Time for Yourself
Nurturing relationships is essential for happiness, but it’s equally essential to take time for yourself. In the midst of our busy lives, it’s all too easy to neglect our own needs and desires. For some, making sure to have quiet time for oneself, to slow down and be more present and intentional, can be just as important. In this respect, you have to find the right balance that is uniquely best for you, your personality and individual needs. Self care is not a luxury but actually an important necessity. By making an effort to prioritize self care, you’re investing in your own well-being and setting the stage for increased happiness and fulfillment in your everyday life.
As we’ve discussed, engaging in activities and hobbies that you love can be a powerful form of self care. Whether it’s painting, gardening, playing an instrument, or simply curling up with a good book, carving out time for activities you enjoy is essential for your overall happiness. These moments of personal indulgence provide an opportunity to recharge, rejuvenate, and reconnect with yourself. As we’ll see, engaging in activities is important in this way, but so is slowing down.
Slowing Down & Being Intentional
For each of us, taking time for oneself might look a little different. For some, it might involve being actively engaged with hobbies and activities. And for others, it might be making sure that you have some time each day to spending quietly, reading or engaging in meditation. Maybe it might look like a long, hot bath or time spent journalling or watching a favorite movie (even one that you’ve seen a million times before but you know always puts you in a happier mood). Exactly what this looks like (i.e., taking time for yourself) will be different for everyone, but the important thing is that you are prioritizing self care and making time for you.
Self Care & Relationships
As well (and it may sound counter-intuitive at first), but taking taking for yourself isn’t just able to bring you more personal joy and fulfillment. It can also strengthen your relationships and provide opportunities for new connections too – just like we talked about previously. When you prioritize self care and engage in activities you love, you become a happier and more content individual. You are also better rejuvenated with more energy for social activities (especially if you’re an introvert). This positivity and energy can be radiant, contagious and magnetic, attracting like-minded people into your life and strengthening the bonds with those already in it. Taking time for yourself really does make a difference, both personally and for meaningful relationships with others – two things that are so important when it comes to how to boost your happiness.
By incorporating more self care into your life, you’ll be setting the stage for celebrating small wins and the profound impact that can have on your happiness. We’ll discuss all about that next. So, give yourself permission to take time for yourself without guilt or hesitation. You deserve it, and it can even boost your happiness too.
Celebrate Small Wins
Now that we have established the importance of self care and taking time for yourself, you might be wondering about the next habit on how to boost your happiness – celebrating small wins. While it’s natural to focus on the big accomplishments and milestones in life, it’s equally crucial to acknowledge and celebrate the small victories along the way (especially because these are much more frequent in everyday life while being just as deserving of celebratory acknowledgment). These small wins may seem insignificant at first glance, but they really do have a profound impact on our overall well-being.
Celebrating small wins is about recognizing and appreciating the progress we make each and every day, no matter how small or seemingly insignificant it may be. Whether it’s completing a task ahead of schedule, learning a new skill or simply making it through a challenging day, these small victories are worth acknowledging. By doing so, we cultivate a sense of accomplishment and pride, which in turn boosts our self-confidence and motivates us to keep moving forward. And don’t forget, they are also the very things that bring us closer to achieving our larger goals as well.
If you’d like to read more about boosting confidence, be sure to check out our recent blog post on quick and easy ways to boost confidence.
Small, Positive Shifts in Focus & Perspective
Moreover, celebrating small wins helps us shift our focus from what’s lacking in our lives to what we have achieved. It’s a very important mindset and perspective shift that can contribute greatly to boosting the general level of happiness in our daily lives. It’s easy to get caught up in chasing after big goals and constantly searching for the next milestone. However, by acknowledging and celebrating the small wins, we remind ourselves of the progress we have already made and the steps we have taken towards our larger aspirations. This not only cultivates a more positive and grateful mindset (something we talked about with respect to a daily gratitude practice) but also provides us with the motivation and momentum to keep pushing forward.
And with respect to goals, be sure to check out our recent blog post on how to stop being indecisive to achieve your goals. It may help you celebrate even more small wins with its suggestions on overcoming indecisiveness, as it relates to personal goals.
Small Wins to Appreciate the Journey
Taking the time to celebrate small wins also allows us to appreciate the journey itself, rather than solely focusing on the destination. Life is made up of countless moments, and each small win represents a step forward in our personal growth and happiness. By celebrating these moments, we learn to savor the process and find joy in the present moment, rather than constantly striving for the next big achievement.
Not only does celebrating small wins help to boost our overall happiness, but it also enhances our resilience and ability to navigate challenges. It reminds us that progress is not always linear, and that even the smallest steps forward are worth acknowledging and celebrating. So, as you continue your journey towards a happier and more fulfilling life, remember to take a moment to revel in your small wins and appreciate the progress you have made.
We have another easy – and especially fun – daily habit to discuss on how to boost your happiness, and that is creating and listening to your own customized happiness playlist of your favorite uplifting songs. Let’s find out all about why this is such a fantastic way to boost your happiness . . .
Create a Happiness Boosting Playlist
Creating a happiness playlist can be an effective way to boost your happiness as it harnesses the power of music to positively impact your mood and emotions. Music has a unique ability to evoke memories, evoke emotions and even stimulate the release of feel-good neurotransmitters like dopamine and endorphins. By curating a playlist of songs that resonate with positive experiences, uplifting lyrics or melodies that make you want to dance, you can create a personal soundtrack that instantly lifts your spirits. Listening to your happiness playlist can enhance your mood, reduce stress, and serve as a form of self care. It provides an opportunity for self-expression, emotional release and momentary escapism from daily challenges. Whether it’s singing along, dancing or simply enjoying the melodies, a happiness playlist can be a powerful tool to bring greater joy, motivation and a sense of well-being into your life.
Here are some popular and uplifting songs that you can consider including on your happiness-boosting playlist:
- “Happy” by Pharrell Williams
- “Don’t Stop Me Now” by Queen
- “Can’t Stop the Feeling!” by Justin Timberlake
- “I Wanna Dance with Somebody” by Whitney Houston
- “Walking on Sunshine” by Katrina and The Waves
- “Good Vibrations” by The Beach Boys
- “Lovely Day” by Bill Withers
- “Dancing Queen” by ABBA
- “Three Little Birds” by Bob Marley
- “Don’t Worry, Be Happy” by Bobby McFerrin
- “Uptown Funk” by Mark Ronson ft. Bruno Mars
- “I Gotta Feeling” by The Black Eyed Peas
- “Mr. Blue Sky” by Electric Light Orchestra
- “Happy Together” by The Turtles
- “I Will Survive” by Gloria Gaynor
More Happiness-Boosting Song Possibilities
Looking for more unique happiness-boosting song choices? Don’t forget to give these happy songs a listen too when practicing daily habits on how to boost your happiness. They are all hits that are sure to boost your mood and fill you with an extra dose of happiness. Even better? Listen to them in the morning to start your day off in the happiest way possible.
- “Send Me On My Way” by Rusted Root
- “Budapest” by George Ezra
- “Best Day of My Life” by American Authors
- “Fancy Like” by Walker Hayes
- “New Soul” by Nael Naim
- “Castle on the Hill” by Ed Sheeran
- “Missing Piece” by Vance Joy
- “About Damn Time” by Lizzo
- “2 Be Loved (Am I Ready)” by Lizzo
- “Green Green Grass” by George Ezra
- “I Want Your Back” by The Jackson 5
These are just a few examples of the many fun and uplifting songs you could include on your personalized happiness-boosting playlist. Remember, these are just suggestions (a few examples of many possibilities) and you can absolutely customize your playlist based on your own personal preferences and the songs that uplift your mood the most. Individual preferences, musical tastes and associations to different songs are all so unique to everyone. Feel free to add songs that hold special meaning or bring back positive memories for you. The key is to create a collection of songs that make you feel happy, energized and uplifted whenever you listen to them – and then make it a habit!
And we’re not done yet, we still have a few more very important habits to discuss (plus bestselling book recommendations) when it comes to how to boost your happiness.
Eat a Healthy Diet
Eating healthy is an essential daily habit that can boost happiness by directly influencing your brain chemistry and overall physical and mental well-being. Nutrient-rich foods, such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins, provide essential vitamins and minerals that support optimal brain function and mood regulation. A balanced diet (especially when prioritized every day) can reduce the risk of mood disorders like depression and anxiety, promoting emotional stability and resilience. Additionally, maintaining a healthy diet can lead to increased energy levels, better sleep patterns and improved physical health, all of which contribute to a more positive and contented outlook on life too. And so if you’re wondering how to boost your happiness, eating a healthy, balanced diet is a great place to start. Incorporating your favorite healthy foods can also make this a fun and exciting habit to practice everyday, leading to greater physical health too.
Exercise Regularly
Need another essential habit on how to boost your happiness? Exercising regularly can boost your overall level of happiness by triggering the release of endorphins, which are natural mood-enhancing chemicals in the brain. These endorphins can support feelings of happiness and also reduce stress and anxiety. Additionally, regular exercise can improve sleep quality, increase self-confidence and promote a positive body image, leading to an overall boost in emotional well-being too. Engaging in physical activity also provides a productive way to manage negative emotions and serves as a healthy outlet for stress relief, ultimately contributing to a happier and more balanced lifestyle. In this way, exercising consistently as a regular habit clearly has tremendously valuable benefits for your physical and mental health, in turn boosting your happiness. By choosing a variety of exercise activities you love, it’s easy to make this a fun and exciting habit on a number of levels.
Of course, it’s so important to exercise safely at all times. Start slow, carefully and within your capabilities to protect yourself from injury. Know your limits both physically and in terms of mobility, and safely pace yourself. If you have any questions or concerns (or are new to exercise), talk to your doctor before starting any health, fitness or exercise program.
Get Great Sleep
We can’t talk about how to boost your happiness without discussing the importance of getting quality sleep – and the right amount of it. Getting enough quality sleep as a habit can boost your happiness by promoting emotional stability and resilience. During deep sleep, the brain processes and regulates emotions, which can result in a more positive outlook on life. Sufficient sleep and rest also enhances cognitive function, concentration and problem-solving abilities, leading to greater overall satisfaction and contentment. Additionally, quality rest supports physical health and energy levels, allowing you to engage in daily activities with enthusiasm, ultimately contributing to a happier and more fulfilling life. In turn, this also helps to give the energy needed to maintain and support your exercise routine, a double benefit given that exercise also serves to boost your general level of happiness in everyday life. It’s a positive cycle – better sleep leads to better exercise, which leads to better sleep and so on (all contributing to greater happiness).
Books on How to Boost Your Happiness
Want even more about how to boost your happiness? If you’d like to read even more suggestions and resources on happiness, be sure to check out Amazon’s bestselling happiness books. Here are six highly-rated and well-known books on happiness that are sure to have incredible recommendations (many backed by credible research) on incorporating daily lifestyle habits to uplift your mood.
The Positive Shift
By Catherine A. Sanderson
Publication Date: January 29, 2019
BUY ON AMAZON
Becoming Flawesome
By Kristina Mand-Lakhiani
Publication Date: June 23, 2023
BUY ON AMAZON
Good Vibes, Good Life
By Vex King
Publication Date: December 4, 2018
BUY ON AMAZON
The Happiness Advantage
By Shawn Achor
Publication Date: June 5, 2018
BUY ON AMAZON
10% Happier
By Dan Harris
Publication Date: April 16, 2019
BUY ON AMAZON
The Happiness Equation
By Neil Pasricha
Publication Date: December 27, 2016
BUY ON AMAZON
Of course, no book list on happiness is complete without Gretchen Rubin’s bestselling happiness project books. Here are two additional titles not to miss, that are full of additional examples and strategies on how to boost your overall happiness.
The Happiness Project (10th Anniversary Edition)
By Gretchen Rubin
Publication Date: March 5, 2019
BUY ON AMAZON
Happier at Home
By Gretchen Rubin
Publication Date: September 4, 2012
BUY ON AMAZON
Take Care of Your Mental & Emotional Health
Lastly, taking care of your mental and emotional health is one of the most important things you can ever do. If you ever have any questions or concerns about your mental health, emotions or feelings, always be sure to first talk to your doctor or other trained mental health professional. If you are ever in crisis, seek immediate help from a qualified professional and remember that you are loved.
All content on Love Beauty Thrive is intended for educational and entertainment purposes only. It is not medical or professional advice and should not be considered as such. All information presented here is based on either personal experience, research and/or general knowledge and interest. At Love Beauty Thrive, we are not doctors or medical professionals and do not provide medical or professional advice of any kind.
We always encourage readers to consult their doctors, professionals or other specialists for specific advice related to their unique individual circumstances in all areas of their lives, including health and wellness. Always take care of yourself by reaching out to your doctor with any health questions or concerns you may have and do not rely on any information here, as its for entertainment and educational purposes only. Following your doctor’s recommendations and treatment plan is always the most important thing you should do with respect to your health and wellness.
If you are struggling with your mental health, emotions or experience of happiness, always talk to your doctor. Stay healthy and happy by consulting with your doctor and taking care of yourself.
How to Boost Your Happiness
Incorporating these nine fun and easy habits into your life can help to support a significant boost in happiness. By practicing daily gratitude, engaging in beloved hobbies, connecting with loved ones, taking time for yourself and celebrating small wins, you can elevate your spirits and find greater fulfillment in your daily routine. Creating a happiness-boosting playlist, along with eating healthy meals, exercising regularly and getting enough good quality sleep (don’t forget reading some bestselling happiness books) are all helpful ways on how to boost happiness too. Remember, happiness is a journey, not a destination. So start small and gradually make these habits a part of your daily life. As the great Dalai Lama once said, “Happiness is not something ready-made. It comes from your own actions.” So take action today and make happiness a priority.
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