Although consumption has increased 45% in the past 20 years, the proportion of American citizens reporting they are “very happy” has remained the same – around one-third – since 1957. So, if “things” aren’t making us happy, what can?
Here are my 5 keys to happiness:
1. Be healthy. My mom always says, “We have nothing if we don’t have our health.” To me, this means eating well, exercising, and making time for self-care.
2. Live within your means. Living with debt is stressful. Debt is a daily burden that can contribute to depression and unhappiness. When I live within my means, I feel proud of myself. And when I feel proud, I feel happy.
3. Give to others. Research supports the real benefits of giving. Studies have shown that people who give feel happier than people who do not.
4. Learn to say no. It’s hard at first, but when I find myself enjoying a quiet Saturday afternoon because I was able to say “no, thanks” to another commitment, I feel happy.
5. Get out in nature. Nature reminds me that life isn’t about “things,” it’s about experiences. There is endless beauty in nature, and that means there is endless happiness out there as well.
Photo by Joan (that’s my sister)
What makes you happy?
