Find happiness in the smallest of things

Post Written by Payal Singh

In our pursuit of happiness, we tend to focus on the more monumental things in life — like landing a dream job and earn many digits to buy happiness or having a fairy-tale wedding. But no matter how good those things can make us feel, the bursts of intense joy they bring will fade once the excitement wears off. So, don’t bet your happiness on big events and grand successes. Instead, school yourself in the art of finding happiness in the smallest of things.

We’re normally so focused on the big things in life that we tend to completely overlook the small ones that nourish our body, mind and soul. Unlike big life events and brag-worthy accomplishments, it’s those little things that can bring real, lasting happiness. Not that fleeting rush of pleasure, but a deep sense of well-being that sustains us in good times and bad. In today’s reality, it’s even more important than ever to be proactive about creating and appreciating these little moments of happiness.

LEARN TO SAVOUR THE LITTLE THINGS WITH 6 NEW HABITS

Start inviting lasting happiness into your life today with these new habits. I wrote because I adopted them, why don't you?

1. YOUR MINDFULNESS IN TINY MOMENTS

Cherish the little moments in life that often go unnoticed, especially in times of crisis. If you’re mindful of the small things that are seemingly mundane or insignificant – like splash colors into your life. Decorate everything with colors according to your choice. Eg: White for your bedroom to make your room more peaceful, colorful boho decor for your dinning, keep lots of air purifier plants, make a perfectly happy work from home set up if you are working form home, keep your kitchen clean. Spray jasmine or lavender air freshener. Open yourself up to the happiness those tiny moments can bring.


2. APPRICIATE WHAT YOU HAVE

Regularly expressing what you’re grateful for in your life makes you feel happier. Gratitude has demonstrated positive effects on our physical and mental well-being – it increases the brain’s happiness hormones, decreases stress levels and improves sleep. So why not practice a two-minute thankfulness routine every day? Get a notebook that will be your dedicated gratitude journal, and write down what you’re grateful for each day. And also don't forget to pray before you sleep.

3. REMEMBER, YOU ARE IMPORTANT TO YOURSELF

If you are physically fit, you are mentally stronger and happy to be happier. Take little time out in the morning to have a warm sunbath and be friendly with mother-nature, do Yoga to focus yourself more, pamper yourself with a book and mug of coffee or a glass of wine, add healthy food in your diet, do exercise to burn your extra calorie, look into the mirror and smile to yourself. 

4. BE YOUR OWN FRIEND

Practicing self-kindness is just as important as being kind to others when it comes to feeling happy. Treat yourself like you would treat a dear friend. Brew yourself a hot cup of tea on a cloudy morning, be non-judgemental, set aside some time for yourself, treat yourself to some pampering, embrace your imperfections, talk to yourself and love yourself whole-heartedly. 

5. BE KIND TO OTHERS

Neuroscientists have found that performing acts of kindness and compassion has a stimulating effect on your brain’s pleasure and reward centres. But we actually don’t need brain scans to know that helping others can make us happier. Being kind to family, friends and even random strangers opens up lots of possibilities to deepen meaningful connections and make new friends.

6. CONNECT WITH YOUR CONNECTIONS

Set aside time to spend quality time together, plan a video call with friends, play games, plan a sudden trip with your buddies and just be present in your relationships with others. And remember, positive interactions and conversations will boost your oxytocin levels, also known as the feel-good hormone, which will in turn reduce any stress you may be feeling.