Pleasure, while wonderful, is a fleeting sensation. Happiness is long-term. Genuine happiness manifests itself in not only how you are feeling when things are great, but also how you are able to react when things are not. No one will always be all happy or all positive, but there are ways to work towards a greater long-term mood. Here are 5:
1. Be forgiving of yourself and others.
This is far easier said than done, I realize. But wouldn't it be freeing to think of someone who has done you wrong and not have feelings of resentment and rage rise to the surface? Forgiving someone who may not deserve it will likely be a long journey to embark on, but it is a worth-while one. You never even have to let the other person know that they are forgiven, but you will know it, and it can help you begin to move on as much as possible.
2. Express more gratitude.
It's not possible to express too much gratitude. While thanking someone who has helped or impacted you is rewarding for both yourself and that individual, it can also just be great to write things you are thankful for in a journal. In today's world, it can be easy to focus on the negativity in the world and not focus enough on our blessings and the people that bestow blessing upon us. Learning to be grateful is a massive component to improving long-term mood.
3. Stop and reflect.
We live in a hustle-and-bustle world, and often we fly through the motions of everyday life without stopping and making sure we are truly content on the path we are on and taking proper care of ourselves. Check in with yourself occasionally; Am I making time to do things that I enjoy? Do I feel like I am being treated fairly at work, by my friends, by my significant other? Take time to stop and reassess.
4. Do things that incorporate your strengths.
It would be fun and extremely rewarding to dedicate your talent to causes that could use you. If you're musically inclined, maybe you could perform for senior citizens at an retirement home. If you're good at photography, you could take photographs at charity benefits.You get to do what you love while also helping others. It's a win-win!
5. Strengthen your relationships.
Again, this will take time. But having positive relationships is essential to improving your long-term mood. Reaching out to friends and checking on them will make you both feel happier. It's important to look after each other.
Well, there you have it, my 5 tips on improving your overall mood! As Warren Buffet once said, "the best investment you can make is in yourself." You are worth it.
