What's the secret to living a happier life? Sometimes we cannot control the cards given to us but we can do our best to roll the dice. Here are just 10 ways to help provide a happier and healthier life:

1. Be Thankful.

Take a step back and breathe in the air, look at your surroundings, and admire what has been given to you. Doing this daily can remind you of all that you have and help you be thankful for your life. Beginning to see things as glass half full rather than glass half empty will not only improve your mood but change the way you see the world and opportunities around you.

2. Embrace Optimism.

Nothing is wrong with being stressed or anxious when thinking of the future, it's normal for our brains to prepare us for the worst. But starting to enjoy the ride instead of thinking of what could go wrong can shape you into a completely different person.

Being confident in what is to come instead of fearing what could happen will alter your chances. You are capable of more than you know. That being said, let faith drive you and not let fear control you.

3. Learn To Love Yourself.

Everyone struggles with self-image and esteem. No one is perfect and that is what makes each person unique. Loving yourself may come in waves: some days you may feel great and others you may feel defeated, but putting forth the effort makes all the difference. It may take months, years, or your whole life to truly master what it means to love yourself, so take it one day at a time.

Do something that will make you feel good about you and fight off those negative thoughts and feelings. You are your worst enemy. Change to be your biggest supporter. Feeling good about you will refine the way you act in everyday life, giving you a new happiness that is irreplaceable.

4. Practice Kindness With No Return.

Everyone loves recognition after working hard, it helps us feel accomplished. While that is great, every time we do something we should not expect an award of some sort. Practicing being kind without being in the News or even getting a thank you can give an appreciation and feeling that is indescribable.

This provides a healthy mindset of willing to help no matter what may be the outcome which makes you a better person.

5. Selflessness.

There is nothing wrong with being selfish sometimes, everyone needs to spoil themselves from time to time. Although, letting yourself absorb in that selfishness can result in a negative personality. Instead, absorb yourself in spoiling others in big and small ways. Bringing yourself to put someone else before you teach you a love that is infectious.

6. Forgive.

Pain is a consumer, not a giver. When we are hurt we almost immediately become another person. We hold grudges and begin to act in cruel ways to cope with the pain we feel. And that's okay. It's healthy to let yourself feel the way you do, but do not let it last.

After a while forgive and move on or you will never truly be able to be happy. Staying stuck in the past will never get you to step into the future. That being said, forgive the people who have hurt you even if you can never forget what they did. Forgiving and forgetting are different and separating the two will allow you to be happy.

7. Positive Relationships.

Toxic friends and family members can hold someone back for their entire lives. Ending a negative relationship is not easy but the reward is worth more. Having a positive relationship will influence you to be more positive. Look for people who share similar values and morals as you and try to hold onto them. They will assist you in a happier life instead of damage your life.

8. Live In The Moment.

Don't let the past and future hold you back from allowing yourself to live your life to the fullest now. Give yourself time to enjoy where you are now and embrace all of it. Doing this will provide you with a less stressful life and a more care-giving mindset. You will find yourself delighted and cheerful.

9. Healthy Body And Mind.

Maintaining a healthy diet affects your thinking, sleep, and mood. Eating right, getting some exercise (whether it be a walk or going to the gym), will keep your body in the right state of mind. But maintaining a healthy diet also means taking a look at mental and emotional health.

Whether it be going to therapy or doing something therapeutic every day, staying healthy mentally will help your mind release stress and anxiety and create an awake and free mind. Take a mental and physical health day from time to time where you focus on yourself and only yourself. Being healthy in all ways will change you completely and increase your happiness by 110%.

10. Environment.

You can't always control the environment you are put in. Therefore, when you can put yourself in a place where you can feel at peace. From Starbucks to a bedroom, find whatever that place may be. It will affect your mood entirely and help you to focus on and breathe.

Do whatever you can to always make sure you are in a positive environment by the smells, decorations, and people. This will provide you a safe place to be yourself and feel better when you are not feeling the best.

There are so many things out of our control yet we have the power to shape so much more than we realize. Taking steps to thinking in a healthier and happier way will make you a new and improved person. Use the opportunities around you and your own power to give yourself a better life.