To create a happy January, we linked up with nonprofit, Action for Happiness, who do incredible work spreading the message of what really makes people happy in communities, schools and workplaces.
Why not conduct your own personal happiness experiment, by trying out the AfH 10 keys to happier living, below.
First, take the Action For Happiness pledge: ‘I will try to create more happiness and less unhappiness in the world around me.’
Below, we’ve also included a few suggestions to get you started.
You might feel a little doubtful that doing such simple things – like contacting a friend to say how much you appreciate them – can make such a real difference.
But all the 10 keys are evidence-based – and incredibly easy to do. For a full list of actions and suggestions and a list of courses, see the Action for Happiness website.
1 Giving: Do things for others
Try: Do three extra acts of kindness today. Try to bring a smile to others.
2 Relating: Connect with other people
Try: Make more time for the people who really matter to you.
3 Exercising: Take care of your body
Try: Notice which healthy actions lift your mood and do more of them.
4 Appreciating: Notice the world around
Try: At least once a day, stop and take five minutes to just breathe and be in the moment.
5 Trying out: Keep learning new things
Try: Learn a new skill, however small.
6 Direction: Have goals to look forward to
Try: Think of a goal you’re aiming for and do one thing to get it started.
7 Resilience: Find ways to bounce back
Try: Share how you really feel with someone you trust – and be willing to ask for help.
8 Emotion: Take a positive approach
Try: To smile and say something positive every time you walk into a room.
9 Acceptance: Be comfortable with who you are
Try: Be as kind to yourself as you are to others.
10 Meaning: Be part of something bigger
Try: Give your time to support a good cause and be part of something bigger.
