I love summer.
I mean; who doesn't? It is the season of sunshine and carefree days and balmy evenings and lots of time for friends and family. A season for travels, bright evenings, exploring, al fresco meals, making memories and taking time off.
We wait all year for it – and yet when it finally arrives, it just seems to whizz by much, much too quickly.
And so now, as we are heading into the very last few days of August, it is perfectly normal to feel a little blue about the fact that summer is almost over. And much as I like autumn too, with its crisp mornings and back-to-routine vibes and clean slates, there is just something a little bit nostalgic about summer being over again.
However – I am a firm believer that happiness is a journey, not just a destination. And so I love creating happy vibes – knowing that choosing happiness is pretty much the most important thing we can all do for our health, both physical and mental.
Happiness habits
And while the reward is a happier you, of course, know that everyone around you will also benefit from you being your happiest, most positive self.
Want to start feeling happier this very moment? Here are ten easy, yet instantly effective ways to start:
1. Make a list of things you’re grateful for
Stopping for a minute and thinking of all the great things and amazing people in your life will probably put any silly complaints you had to rest.
2. Buy yourself some flowers
Fresh flowers in your house will instantly make it a happier place.
3. Call a friend
Don't text; call! Calling a close friend is a great way to talk over your worries and get advice from someone you trust.
4. Step into your kitchen
Even if you're not a cook, take your mind off things by exploring new ingredients or trying a new recipe. Cooking or baking a great stress relief, and the reward at the end is a delicious meal or yummy treat, so win-win!
5. Make lists
Take a few minutes to jot down your day's or week’s to-do lists. Focusing on your priorities will leave you feeling in control of your day.
6. Declutter
For a clean slate, get organized. Getting rid of the clutter and rearranging your space will make it feel new. It is also a great starting point to move forward with future projects.
7. Rest up
If you're having a hard time getting your mind off things, reset with a power nap. A short break will give your mind and body a rest and will help you approach things differently when you wake.
8. Accept responsibility
If something is bothering you, either fix it or accept that nothing can be done right now, so why complain? Complaining is a passive activity. Change that complaining into action to solve the problem or simply accept it and give your mind something else to focus on.
9. Unplug
Calm your mind by turning off your tech and escaping social media for a minute or two.
10. Take care of yourself
Stress and a busy lifestyle can often take over our lives and break down anyone’s positive spirit. Take time out from your life for just you. Make sure you get to see that movie you were dying to watch (bring a friend or make it a date night with your hubby), take a hot bath, head to your yoga class, get a manicure, organize a game night, book that weekend away, or do whatever relaxes and energizes you.
