How To Be Happy No Matter What - 7 Tips from Research

Happiness is not just a pleasant state of mind; research shows it contributes to a long, healthy life. A positive outlook can help manage stress and improve immune function, leading to better overall health (source: Mayo Clinic).

How To Be Happy - Take-aways:

1. Happiness is significantly influenced by quality relationships, regular exercise, mindfulness and meditation, adequate sleep, and a balanced diet.
2. The concept of 'miswanting' can lead us astray in our pursuit of happiness – we should avoid materialism and the constant comparison trap that social media often feeds into.
3. The practice of savoring, or fully appreciating the present moment, has been linked to increased levels of happiness.
4. Common misconceptions about happiness include the belief that money equals happiness and the idea of a fixed happiness "set point".
5. Happiness is a skill that can be developed and improved over time with practice and persistence.

Key #1: Cultivate Positive Relationships - Maintain An “Inner Circle” of At Least 3 People

A study published in the Journal of Socio-Economics states that relationships are worth more than $100,000 in terms of life satisfaction.

Quality relationships are one of the biggest contributors to happiness, self-esteem, and mental well-being. Harvard's longest study on human happiness, led by psychologist Dr. Robert Waldinger, revealed that close relationships, more than money or fame, are what keep people happy throughout their lives (source: TED Talk). Regular interactions with friends and family, building a sense of community, and maintaining supportive networks can significantly enhance our happiness quotient.

Research suggests that the quality of our relationships directly impacts our happiness. A study published in the Journal of Socio-Economics states that relationships are worth more than $100,000 in terms of life satisfaction, while another study published in the British Medical Journal reveals that people with active social lives are less likely to develop dementia. Therefore, invest time in building strong, positive relationships. Regularly engage in social activities, maintain open communication, show appreciation, and offer support during times of need.

Do: Express your feelings openly, show empathy, be actively involved in your loved ones' lives, and resolve conflicts amicably.

Don't: Keep your feelings bottled up, disregard the emotions of others, be passive in relationships, or harbor grudges.

Key #2: 20-Minute Daily Exercise 

Individuals who engaged in regular exercise experienced 43.2% fewer days of poor mental health per month than inactive individuals.

Regular exercise is not only good for physical health but also for mental wellbeing. Mayo Clinic's research indicates that physical activity stimulates various brain chemicals that leave you feeling happier, more relaxed, and less anxious (source: Mayo Clinic). Whether it’s a brisk walk in nature or a rigorous workout at the gym, exercise can significantly boost your mood.

Regular physical activity is a proven happiness booster. According to the American Psychological Association, exercise can help alleviate long-term depression. A study published in The Lancet found that individuals who engaged in regular exercise experienced 43.2% fewer days of poor mental health per month than inactive individuals. Therefore, incorporate regular physical activity into your daily routine, whether it's a brisk walk, yoga session or a high-intensity workout.

Do: Incorporate simple exercises like walking, yoga, or cycling into your daily routine. Make sure to be consistent.

Don't: Overdo exercise or push yourself to the point of injury. Avoid treating exercise as a chore or obligation.

Key #3: Occasional Mindfulness and Meditation 

A study published in JAMA Internal Medicine found that mindfulness meditation improved anxiety symptoms in 58% of participants and depression symptoms in 57% of participants.

Mindfulness and meditation have been scientifically shown to increase levels of happiness by reducing anxiety and improving mental health. A study from Johns Hopkins University found that meditation can provide a level of relief from symptoms of anxiety and depression similar to antidepressant drugs (source: Johns Hopkins Medicine).

Mindfulness and meditation can significantly improve mental health and increase happiness levels. A study published in JAMA Internal Medicine found that mindfulness meditation improved anxiety symptoms in 58% of participants and depression symptoms in 57% of participants. Practice mindfulness through daily meditation sessions, focusing on your breath, or engaging in mindful eating practices.

Do: Dedicate a few minutes each day to focus on your breath and be fully present in the moment.

Don't: Rush through activities without paying attention to them. Avoid multitasking as it can prevent you from being fully present.

Key #4: 7-9 Hours of Sleep 

Sleep has a profound impact on our mood and overall mental health. The National Sleep Foundation's research highlights how lack of sleep can lead to irritability and stress, while good sleep can enhance productivity, concentration, and overall happiness (source: National Sleep Foundation).

Quality sleep is essential for maintaining positive mood and emotional stability. The Sleep Health Foundation reports that poor sleep quality interferes with mood regulation, leading to increased irritability and anxiety. A National Sleep Foundation poll found that people who reported good quality sleep also reported better quality life and lower levels of stress. Therefore, aim for 7-9 hours of sleep each night, maintain a consistent sleep schedule, and create a restful environment.

Do: Stick to a sleep schedule, create a restful environment, and incorporate a relaxing bedtime routine.

Don't: Have heavy meals, caffeine, or alcohol before bed. Avoid using electronic devices close to bedtime as it can interfere with sleep.

Key #5: Diverse & Balanced Diet - 7 Portions of Fruit & Veggie Daily

Research published in the American Journal of Public Health shows that people who eat seven portions of fruit and vegetables a day have the highest levels of mental well-being.

A balanced diet not only fuels our bodies but also contributes to good mental health. According to Harvard Medical School research, certain nutrients found in food are associated with brain health, including omega-3 fatty acids (found in fatty fish) and antioxidants (found in fruits and vegetables) which can boost mood and restore balance in our brain chemistry (source: Harvard Medical School).

Eating a balanced diet can significantly contribute to our happiness levels. Research published in the American Journal of Public Health shows that people who eat seven portions of fruit and vegetables a day have the highest levels of mental well-being. To achieve this, incorporate a variety of fruits and vegetables into your meals, include whole grains and lean proteins, reduce intake of processed foods.

Do: Eat a variety of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats. Drink plenty of water.

Don't: Rely heavily on processed foods, sugars, and sodium. Avoid skipping meals or extreme dieting.

Key #6: Not Falling into the 'Miswanting' Trap - Buy What You Need, Not Want

 A study published in Science found that people often overestimate how much happiness material possessions will bring them.

'Miswanting' is the act of being bad at predicting what will make us happy. Psychologists Daniel Gilbert and Tim Wilson conducted extensive research on this concept - it's essential to avoid materialism and the constant comparison trap that social media feeds into (source: University of Virginia).

'Miswanting' can lead us to chase things that don't truly make us happy. A study published in Science found that people often overestimate how much happiness material possessions will bring them. Counteract this by practicing gratitude for what you have and focusing on experiences over possessions.

Do: Regularly introspect to differentiate between wants (often influenced by external factors) and needs (essential for survival and wellbeing).

Don't: Blindly pursue materialistic desires or get influenced by societal pressures without considering whether they will truly enhance your life.

Key #7: Savoring - Every Minute Count

The act of savoring – taking a moment to appreciate the good things in life – has been linked to increased levels of happiness. Research from The University of California Berkeley's Greater Good Science Center indicates that by focusing on positive experiences, individuals can enhance their positivity and improve their overall wellbeing (source: Greater Good Magazine).

The practice of savoring can greatly enhance our happiness levels. Research from the Journal of Personality and Social Psychology found that individuals who regularly take time to savor positive experiences report higher levels of happiness than those who do not. Practice savoring by taking time each day to reflect on positive experiences or engage fully in enjoyable moments.

Do: Slow down and take time to enjoy the present moment. Engage all your senses during everyday activities.

Don't: Rush through life without taking time to appreciate the good things. Avoid focusing solely on the future or dwelling on the past.

IX. Misconceptions About Happiness 

Many people believe that money equals happiness. However, an extensive study published in Psychological Science found that income above $75k per year does not significantly improve day-to-day happiness (source: Psychological Science). Another common misconception is the happiness "set point" theory - the belief that we each have a fixed level of happiness. However, studies have shown that this set point can be changed through practices like those mentioned above.

Happiness is not a fixed state but rather a skill that we can develop over time with practice. By cultivating positive relationships, exercising regularly, practicing mindfulness and meditation, getting enough sleep, maintaining a balanced diet, avoiding 'miswanting,' and savoring life's moments - we can all live happier lives.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How can I improve my relationships to increase my happiness?

A: Improving relationships begins with effective communication. Regularly talk and listen to your loved ones, show empathy, and express your feelings openly. Active involvement in their lives, showing respect, and valuing their opinions can also strengthen bonds. Furthermore, resolving conflicts amicably and forgiving past hurts can lead to healthier, happier relationships.

Q: What are some simple exercises I can incorporate into my daily routine?

A: Walking is an accessible exercise that you can incorporate into your daily routine. You can also try yoga, which combines physical movement with mindfulness. Other exercises like cycling, swimming or bodyweight workouts can also be done regularly. Remember, consistency is more important than intensity when it comes to reaping the mental health benefits of exercise.

Q: How do I practice mindfulness?

A: Mindfulness involves being fully present in the moment and aware of where we are and what we’re doing. You can start by dedicating 5-10 minutes each day to focus on your breath. Paying close attention to your senses - what you see, smell, hear, touch, taste - during everyday activities is also a simple way to practice mindfulness.

Q: What strategies can help me get a better night's sleep?

A: Stick to a sleep schedule by going to bed and getting up at the same time every day, even on weekends. Create a restful environment – dark, quiet, cool – and make sure your mattress and pillows are comfortable. Avoid heavy meals, caffeine, and alcohol before bed. Incorporating a relaxing bedtime routine like reading or listening to soft music can also aid in better sleep.

Q: What type of diet is considered balanced and healthy?

A: A balanced diet includes a variety of different foods in the right proportions. This means consuming a wide array of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats while limiting processed foods, sugars and sodium intake. Drinking plenty of water is also essential.

Q: How do we differentiate between what we want and what we need?

A: It's important to recognize that wants are often influenced by external factors such as advertising or societal pressure while needs are things that are essential for our survival and wellbeing. Regular introspection can help us differentiate between the two. Ask yourself whether the thing you want will truly enhance your life or if it's just a temporary desire.

Q: How can I start practicing 'savoring' in my everyday life?

A: Start by slowing down and taking the time to enjoy the present moment. This could be during a meal, while listening to music or even while walking in nature. Try to engage all your senses – what do you see, hear, taste, smell? The more you practice this technique, the easier it becomes to savor everyday moments.