Simple and Easy Ways to Remain Happier

It would be an understatement to say that the last two years have been difficult for people across the globe. Caught between the Covid-19 pandemic and inflation, people in the United States, as elsewhere, are experiencing emotional distress. According to a report in The Washington Post in 2020, as high as 45% of adults in America say that the pandemic has severely affected their mental health. Even people who aren’t struggling with mental health problems may find that their frame of mind has worsened over the last two years. Now, they seek new ways to be happier every day and every moment. 

Your changing mood doesn’t suggest that you suffer from severe mental health issues, such as depression and anxiety. However, even if you believe that your mental health is not at risk, you should check with a general medicine practitioner or a psychologist to find whether your occasional bouts of sadness are a sign of something that needs medical attention. Your physician will not only diagnose your problems, if any but also help you to lead a happier and healthier life. 

Even people with sound mental health may benefit from a few simple changes to their routine, often without spending a cent. Here are a few simple and easy ways to help you improve your mood and remain happier. 

Develop a Routine for Self-care

Irrespective of how busy you are, you must always make enough time to care for yourself. It is never selfish to prioritize your needs because you don’t have anything else except your health. To obtain the maximum benefits out of your self-care activities, ensure finding something that enriches you and, at the same time, feeds your soul. Your self-care activities may range from spending your time gardening and exercising to planning out your next vacation. It can even be something like taking care of yourself in ways you usually don’t have time for. Taking proper care of yourself lets you reiterate that you’re a priority. Whatever you may choose, make sure it’s something you are passionate about and it gives you a good feeling. 

Avoid Your Phone when You Wake Up 

Many of us think that checking our phones after waking up every morning makes us responsible individuals. On the contrary, it’s harmful, at least for your mental health. Checking emails and messages soon after waking up in the morning creates a sudden surge of ‘to-do.’ This can put us in a working mood even before we start our day. Instead of checking your phone, try to incorporate some stimulating activities every morning, such as meditation, tidying up, or even taking a shower. As far as your work is concerned, you should delay checking messages until the actual start time of your workday. Instead, use that time for minor, mindful moments that will help you to set a calmer tone in your mornings. 

Make Happiness Your Priority

Most of us were told we couldn’t have fun until our chores/homework were complete when we were children. Undoubtedly, it is a good lesson, and it needs to be modified in adulthood. If we do not change it, this habit can result in you being unwell. Therefore, it is crucial to have something you are not willing to give up, and you will schedule it around to balance your other responsibilities. You either work to live or live to work. Everything is about finding a balance that works best for you while still feeling productive. So, prioritize your happiness and never let the ‘to-dos’ burn you.  

Go on a Hike and Forget Your Daily Chores  

Going outside can provide the vitamin D that you may lack due to quarantine or remote working during these uncertain times. However, we are not talking about getting out and moving. You should consider straying from your everyday routine and getting lost somewhere else. The beauty of getting lost in something is the complete immersion experience where you are mindful of just being where you are, with what you’re doing, and without being judged. Being mindful allows you to switch off the static background that usually rolls through your mind. So, whatever you do to get away, ensure you do it thoroughly and give it your 100% attention. 

Try to be Creative 

Most of the day, we usually use our analytical side of the brain to complete regular tasks. On the other hand, if we incorporate creative activities into our daily life, it can boost our mood and give us a sense of accomplishment. Even when you have to do something stupidly dull, find a way to make it exciting. Boring stuff gives you the most significant opportunity to get creative. You can be creative by pursuing your hobbies or doing little things like gardening. Remember, an innovative mind never allows you to harbor unpleasant thoughts.