Are You Up For The Happiness Challenge?

We live in the lucky country, but exactly how happy are we?  In 2010, the Australian Bureau of Statistics reported 78% of Aussies over 18 claimed to be satisfied with their life.

Is your New Year’s resolution to focus on the parts of your life that bring you happiness? Step up to the happiness challenge, guaranteed to leave you feeling happier!

Day 1: Surround Yourself With Positive People

You know those people who make you laugh? Then when you walk away you find yourself still smiling. They say you are the average of the five people you spend the most time with. Make sure you surround yourself with supportive and positive people who want to see you happy.

Day 2: Listen to Happy Music

Not just any happy music, the type that makes you want to dance around your lounge room or in the street.  Listen to music that you can’t help but dance to.

Day 3: Random Acts of Kindness

“Kindness in words creates confidence. Kindness in thinking creates profoundness. Kindness in giving creates love.” ~ Lao Tzu

Being kind to others has also been proven to have substantial benefits, other than the obvious. Researchers have found a positive link between happiness and kindness. Studies have shown that engaging in a random act of kindness, even if you’re told to do so, actually improves your happiness level.

Day 4: Take Care of Your Body

Take care of your body. It’s the only place you have to live. ~Jim Rohn

The way you feel is a reflection of how you treat your body, so be sure to eat well, exercise, and get enough sleep. Our mind and our body are connected, so be sure to take good care of your body.

Day 5: Express Gratitude

Express your gratitude. Studies have shown a dramatic increase in our levels of happiness and well-being when we express what we are grateful for. Sometimes we can get so caught up with our problems, that we lose sight of all the things we are grateful for.

Day 6: Optimism and Positivity

Take a positive approach; focus on the glass being half full, not half empty. Focusing on positive emotions helps to create an upward spiral of optimism. This can also act as a buffer against stress and help us face difficulties. Studies also show that positive emotions help us recover more rapidly from the effects of negative emotions.

Day 7: Commit to Your Goals

If you want to be happy, you need to be clear about what you want from life. Ensure you focus on all goals; personal, work, relationships, financial, and contribution. This will help give you meaning and purpose, and assure that you are heading in the right direction.