Seven Habits of Happy (and successful) People

7 Habits of Happy People

"When people feel happy, they tend to feel confident, optimistic, and energetic and others find them likable and sociable. Happy people are thus able to benefit from these perceptions."

Sonja Lyubomirsky, Professor of Psychology, University of California, Riverside
The research said that life success is connected with well-being and desirable personal characteristics.
I've been looking into happiness and I thought I would share just SEVEN common habits of happy people that just may help you achieve desired success.

1) RELATIONSHIPS

Maybe you have heard people say something like: “It is not the quantity of your friends, rather the quality of your friends that matters most.” The truth is that people who have one or more close friendships, seem to be happier. We can have what seems to be a large network of friends, but it is our close friendships that make a difference in our lives. Close friends share in our personal feelings and lift our spirits even during the most difficult or challenging times. A close friend understands, almost instinctively when we need to laugh instead of cry.

2) CARING

Harold Kushner said this: “Caring about others, running the risk of feeling, and leaving an impact on people, brings happiness”. Those who consistently volunteer or care for others seem to be the most happy. When we help others, we are creating in ourselves, a feeling of deep and lasting joy. “The best way to find yourself is to lose yourself in the service of others”. Gandhi

3) HEALTH & WELLNESS

Want to feel better about yourself, your life and be happier? Regular exercise is associated with improved mental well-being and a lower incidence of depression. Vigorous exercise on a regular basis is a natural and effective anti-depressant.

4) FLOW

When we are involved or submersed in trying to achieve a goal, or doing an activity that is both challenging and suits our skills sets, we experience a joyful state of mind – Flow. Flow happens when you do something that brings you joy or sense of accomplishment. Think about when you were so focused that time sped by and suddenly it is dinner time. Flow occurs when we are excited and passionate about an activity or goal. Even in long term goal seeking, many experience FLOW.

5) SPIRITUAL ENGAGEMENT & MEANING

There is a close link between our happiness and spiritual lives. As humans, we have a soul that naturally yearns for deeper meaning in our lives. The different paths people take toward faith or spirituality vary. Being spiritual does not mean a perfect life, but being a part of community, developing friendships, prayer, and faith does give meaning to our lives and joy. Scientific studies have shown a close link between faith and happiness.

6) STRENGTHS & VIRTUES

You were born with unique strengths and talents. By recognizing what qualities you have naturally, you are able to access and use your strengths and virtues for purposes greater than your own personal goals. This is universal for each of us. Think about a time when you were at your very, very best. Can you determine how you were able to be your best? If you are unable to see your strengths, ask a close, trusted friend or family member what they see as your strength. Ask them – “What quality do I have that is admirable”?

7) MINDFULNESS &  POSITIVE THINKING - OPTIMISM

Winston Churchill said: “A pessimist sees the difficulty in every opportunity; an optimist sees the opportunity in every difficulty.” We all know a pessimist, or as I call them, “Debbie Downers”. Pessimists and Optimists differ in the approach and dealing with adversity and difficulties. Theodore Roosevelt said, "When you are asked if you can do a job, tell 'em, 'Certainly I can!' Then get busy and find out how to do it." Life is complex and challenges will come. While some get sucked into pessimism like a creature stuck in quick sand, the best thing to do is look for the silver lining. Walter Winchell put it perfectly by saying,"Optimist: A man who is chased up a tree by a lion but enjoys the scenery anyway."
Do you have HAPPINESS TIPS? I would love to hear them. Write to me at dvd@debidevens.com.
If you enjoyed this, please share with others.
Debi Devens

P.S. Find Out how You Can Have Daily Digitally Delivered Inspiration and help others HERE


dvd@debidevens.com