Happiness is all around us. You can find it in the little moments and the big ones. It can be found after acing a test you studied weeks for, or getting a hello from someone you haven't spoken to in years. Pure joy, a feeling that is truly unmatched. It is important to find positivity in our every day lives, and to be able to radiate that in the best way possible. However, how does one find joy amidst all the stress, negativity, and unhappiness that can surround college life? Not to mention, the cloud of doom that brews when finals are on the way. Here's how to find even a little bit of happiness in college:
1. Going out of your way to say hello to everyone you know
I don't know about you all, but whenever someone stops me in the hallway to say hello or to ask how i've been, it makes my entire day. By doing this for other people, it will, in turn, make your day even better.
2. Being prepared academically
Academic stress is the root of unhappiness in college. So much weight is placed on our performance, that slacking is not an option. Working hard throughout the semester and studying in advance, will help relieve that stress. Therefore, raising your joy by a significant amount.
3. Eating junk food at least once a week
Now, if you're someone who eats healthy 24/7 please don't take offense to this point. What I mean, is that once a week just eat your favorite food. That could be a salad for some, a candy bar, or maybe a huge plate of lasagna for others. Food = happiness, so indulge in a little every now and then.
4. Taking a break from studying to do something fun
This could mean going for a jog to clear your head, reading a favorite book, or even doing a quick puzzle. By doing something you enjoy, it will make studying more fun and bring way more happiness to the situation.
5. Calling your parents
I emphasize calling your parents as much as possible. It's difficult for them to have you so far away, so be sure to call and fill them in on your exciting life. Plus, your parents will always remind you of your potential and how amazing you are, so how could that not bring you happiness?
6. Staying away from social media at times
Social media can be funny at times, don't get me wrong. But it can also be hurtful and negative. By taking a break from social media, it will lead to more happiness in life. Not to mention more face-to-face conversation.
7. Ignoring the hate that's around you
Stop listening to the people who are so negative about college, who hate their professors, and everything about school in general. To be successful and happy in college, you must buy into the process. By paying attention to the hate that college can get, then progress cannot be made.
8. By picking up your friends when they've had a bad day
Being able to radiate your positivity to make others feel better is a gift, one that should be given at all times. Plus, by helping your friends when they are having a bad day, they will help you in return.
9. Learn to smile in the face of mistakes
Mistakes will happen to you, it's inevitable. You will fail in more ways than one, and probably embarrass yourself along the way. BUT, learn to smile in these moments. Remind yourself that mistakes happen to literally everyone, and move on.
10. Don't dwell too much on the mistakes you've made in the past
In connection with the previous point, dwelling on mistakes that were made a long time ago will get you nowhere near happiness. Learn from those mistakes, but never let them get in the way of having a better future.
11. Love yourself
This is so important. For true happiness to be found, you must learn to love who you see in the mirror. Accept your flaws, remind yourself that you are worthy of happiness, and go conquer the world. Learn to love who you are, and the rest will fall into place.
