Unfortunately, we live in a world full of hate and negativity which makes it very easy for many of us to feel sorrow and pain instead of happiness. However, there are so many wonderful things to be happy about. Whether it's big things or the little things in life that put a smile on your face, make sure you take the time to appreciate and enjoy some of those things. In order to get more of a variety on what makes people smile, I asked people to give me a few things that make them happy and have included them all in my list below!
1. Coffee
A nice cup of coffee in the morning can easily set the mood for your day. Don't like coffee? That's okay! Tea or hot chocolate provide a similar reaction.
2. Puppies (or just dogs in general)
What's better than playing with a pup? This activity can be paired with others on this list. For example, taking a walk? Why not bring your four-legged friend along?
3. Cozy/Fuzzy blankets
Fuzzy blankets, in my opinion, are such a blessing. Nothings makes me happier than curling up in bed like a burrito on a cold winter day.
4. You're alive
While this seems like such a trivial thing, for some people it means so much. You should be happy that you have been given the chance to enjoy this beautiful thing called life.
5. Sunrises/Sunsets
Sunrises and sunsets, while beautiful, also hold a deeper meaning for some. Sunrises represent a fresh start and new beginnings. Sunsets represent an ending which may be relieving for those that have had a long, trying day. Whether you like them for their beauty or their significance, sunrises and sunsets are amazing and we should be happy that we live in a world where we can experience such a thing.
6. A place to call home
Some people don't have somewhere to go home to every night. Be grateful that you or your family members have worked hard to put/keep a roof over your head.
7. Books & book stores/libraries
if you don't understand the joy of reading books, I'm so sorry for you. Books allow us to escape from reality into fictional stories while forming a connection to fictional characters and from what I've heard, people really enjoy that break from reality. Book stores and libraries give us somewhere to pick up our favorite reads or sit and read them.
8. TV shows & Movies
Similiarly to books, some people use television shows and movies to take a break from reality and relax. However, more commonly it's a movie from the comedy genre that's putting a smile on somebody's face.
9. Music/Concerts
A lot of times we hear that song lyrics were able to express a person's feelings better than they could have. This acts as a healthy release of stress, anger, sadness, etc while it could also put people in a happy mood. As for concerts, the energy at a concert is enough to put a smile on your face.
10. Sweatpants
Everybody loves dressing down sometimes. I know, personally, I love being able to relax in my sweatpants without feeling judged.
11. Bubble Baths
Ahhhh...SO relaxing!
12. FOOD
Pizza, bagels, peanut butter, nutella, etc...need I say more? How lucky we are to be able to enjoy such delicious things!
13. Freshly shaved legs on clean sheets
Most girls will say that this is one of the best feelings ever... I would have to agree!
14) Quiet
Who doesn't love some peace and quiet to just sit back and relax every once in a while? Be happy if you get even just a taste of it...most people don't.
15. Disney World
C'mon, it's called the happiest place on Earth.
16. School (the fun parts!)
The fun part of school could be different for everyone. Some people find joy in getting good grades while others find living with their friends and enjoying the weekend to be more their cup of tea. Whichever you are, school can provide with at least a little bit of happiness with all that stress it brings.
17. Friends & Family
No matter how much they may frustrate you from time to time, friends and family are there to support you. That means that they will always try to cheer you up after a bad day or enjoy your happiness with you after you find out good news. Whether it's having a good night out with friends or staying in for a movie night with family, these people always have your back and want you to be at your happiest.
18. Milestones--weddings,graduations,etc
Milestones are accomplishments that you and/or your loved ones have made. You should be happy to be present for such a memorable part of your loved ones lives.
19. Dancing
Whether you're dancing passionately at a studio or just having fun on a night out, dancing is a great way to let loose. Dance those worries away, my friend!
20. Memories
Memories allow us to think back on happy times in our lives. While they can sometimes hold people in their past, they can also be a great tool for remembering times with loved ones that have passed away or old friends that have since left your life.
21. Dressing up
While some people would prefer to sit in their comfy clothes, others love getting dressed up. SO, if it's making you love yourself and it makes you happy, then keep doing you!!
22. Making other people laugh
Personally, this is one of my favorite things to do and I know a few others who are in the same boat. The ability to make other people happy even if they're going through a rough patch, is easily one of the best feelings.
23. Long car rides
Many people use long drives as a time to clear their minds and even get away from what is causing them stress. It's no secret that a peaceful mind is more likely to be a happy one as well.
24. Late night talks
Sometimes a late night vent session is exactly what you need to relax your mind. Once your mind is relaxed, you'll be able to sleep better and will most likely be less cranky when you wake up the next morning (which will improve your and those around you's happiness)
25. Nature/The outdoors
The outdoors is for both the adventure-seeking and those looking for more of a relaxing enviornment. For my adventure- seeking friends, the outdoors acts as somewhere that they can explore in many different ways. However, for my friends that enjoy just getting away from the hustle and bustle of a town and having a relaxing place to be, taking a stroll by a lake is more enjoyable for them. If you don't fit into either of those descriptions and hate bugs,dirt and all that fun stuff, them I'm sure that the outdoors is not some place for you and you would be much happier on your couch watching Netflix.
Maybe these specific things don't make you happy, but something does. I encourage everybody to take some time out of their day to do something that brings them nothing but happiness. Whether it's hanging out with a friend or curling up with a good book, make sure you're making your happiness a priority.
