5 things you can do right now to be happier

I’ve you’ve been feeling a little down lately - and yes it’s Monday again, why?! - it can sometimes seem overwhelming to get back out of that slump.

We’re all unhappy sometimes, for varying reasons, and the thought of turning our whole lives around seems daunting.

But there is actually a much simple approach to finding that happy place again.

Dr Suzy Green, Founder and CEO of The Positivity Institute, knows that sometimes it’s the small changes that can really help lift your spirits. And help you in the long-term as well.

Speaking to Yahoo Lifestyle, the Fitbit Life Coach shares five things you can start doing right now to be happier.

Set a goal

There’s no arguing with the research. Overtime its proven those who set and strive towards personally meaningful goals report higher levels of goal attainment and experience greater levels of happiness and wellbeing.

The key here though is ‘meaningful’ – that is, your goals need to be your goals – authentic goals.

One tip is to spend some time thinking about your values – what really matters to you? – and make some clear connections between your values and your goals. Knowing your WHY has also been shown to enhance motivation

Seek support

All too often, we think we’re superheroes trying to achieve our goals, all on our own.

When in fact, research tells us that social support and social capital makes all the difference to goal achievement and wellbeing.

Be sure though to select your cheerleaders carefully as sometimes even those closest to us, can undermine our efforts for positive change and happiness.

Show appreciation

Both cultivating and expressing gratitude has been shown to enhance happiness and wellbeing.

If you’re someone who’s been taking friends, family and your life circumstances for granted, you could experience a large boost to your happiness if you cultivate an attitude of gratitude.

Make sure to move

Be sure to include some sort of physical activity because research also tells us that those who move are happier!

I recommend tracking 10,000 steps every day using a Fitbit, or similar device, it will motivate you to move every day and take time for yourself.

Start a positive list

Just like prioritising health and fitness, research now tells us that people that prioritise positivity are happier human beings – mentally and physically.

Create a list of all the things that make you happy and then schedule these activities into your weekly or monthly timetable.

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