The Importance of Happiness

WRITTEN BY JILL BIGGINS GERBRACHT

I think we can all agree, it makes us happy to feel happy, right? Happiness not only makes us better people but affects the lives of everyone around us—providing them with a positive environment in which to thrive and be happy themselves. On the flip side, our unhappiness can just as easily have a negative effect on those around us.

That said, happiness is a cherished value in our society and something we typically strive for in our daily lives. Advantage magazine has put together a few “Happiness” resources for you to access. Read on for ideas and inspiration to keep your days happy!

• Happiness improves your cardiac health.

• Happy people are more likely to eat healthily and be more physically active.

• Happiness strengthens your immune system.

• Happy people are more productive and likely to succeed.

• Being happy helps reduce your stress levels.

• Happy people have fewer aches and pains.

• Happiness helps combat disease and disability.

• Happiness lengthens our lives.

While it will take time to figure out the exact mechanisms by which happiness influences health and how factors like social relationships and exercise fit in, based on this list it seems safe to imagine a happier you will be healthier too.

Increasing happiness might seem like a big task, but sometimes a simple activity can have a profoundly positive impact on your mood. It’s not always easy to know what will make you feel happier, especially if you are feeling down. Whether you’re looking for a quick mood boost or hoping to implement positive habits, you might benefit from trying some science-backed ways to increase your happiness.

• Take time to engage in random acts of kindness.

• Respond actively and constructively, celebrating when others share good news.

• Attend to others mindfully, and practice compassion and empathy.

• Get a good night’s sleep.

• Journaling is a great way to boost your mood and attain your goals.

• Watch a funny movie.

• Hug someone you care about.

• Get some fresh air and go for a walk in nature.

• The Happiness Project by Gretchen Rubin

• Solve for Happy: Engineer Your Path to Joy by Mo Gawdat

• Happiness is a Serious Problem by Dennis Prager

• Stumbling on Happiness by Daniel Gilbert

• Don’t Sweat the Small Stuff and It’s All Small Stuff by Richard Carlson

• The Art of Happiness: A Handbook for Living by the Dalai Lama

• The Happiness Hypothesis by Jonathan Haidt

While achieving the happiness you desire won’t always be easy, it will require a continuing process of counting your blessings and giving up any expectations that life is supposed to be easy and always go your way. Learning to be satisfied with what you have is always a good place to start. That, combined with the ability to take responsibility for your life and actions, will help you achieve your desires and bring you more happiness. If you’re willing to put some thought into achieving a happier outlook, these tips and inspirations will be of value. •