15 Important Things Happy People Do Differently From The Rest Of Us
#1: They Don't Let Gender Define Them
Do what you want, even if that means defying gender norms. It goes both ways. Love my little ponies? Wear pink whether you're male or female. Like building things? Live your dream and study architecture. Your genitals have nothing to do with what work you do while you're on this earth.
#2: They understand that life's not about waiting for the storm to pass.
It's about learning to dance in the rain and becoming one with the storm.
#3: Happy people take responsibility for their actions
Happy people aren't perfect, and they're well aware of that. When they screw up, they admit it. They recognize their faults and work to improve on them. Unhappy people tend to blame others and always find an excuse why things aren't going their way. Happy people, on the other hand, live by the mantra:"There are two types of people in the world: those that do and those that make excuses why they don't."
#4: Happy people surround themselves with other happy people
One defining characteristic of happy people is they tend to hang out with other happy people. Misery loves company, and unhappy people gravitate toward others who share their negative sentiments. If you're struggling with a bout of sadness, depression, worry, or anger, spend more time with your happiest friends or family members. Chances are, you'll find that their positive attitude rubs off on you.
#5: They Travel
See as much of the world as you can even if you're on a tight budget, the sharing economy pretty much lets you travel for free!.
#6: They Don't Dwell On The Past
Happy people don't dwell on the past or worry about the future. They savor the present. They let themselves get immersed in whatever they're doing at the moment. Stop and smell the roses.
#7: They Treat Other's With Kindness
Did you know that it has been scientifically proven that being kind makes you happier? Every time you perform a selfless act, your brain produces serotonin, a hormone that eases tension and lifts your spirits. Not only that, but treating people with love, dignity, and respect also allows you to build stronger relationships.
#8: They are always honest
Lying stresses you out, corrodes your self-esteem, and makes you unlikeable. The truth will set you free. Being honest improves your mental health and builds others' trust in you. Always be truthful, and never apologize for it.
#9: They know social media isn't real life
Due to social media, it's really easy to feel inadequate or have low self-esteem because you're still experiencing your day-to-day while seeing everyone else's highlight reels. A few months ago, I chose to stop using any social media except Facebook and Tumblr. I've since seen a gradual but steady increase in how little I worry about if I'm doing "good enough" and wish I'd done it sooner. Everyone should try it at least for a week.
#10: They don't hold themselves to unrealistic standards
There have been countless articles written about how the ladies in the magazines don't even look like the ladies in the magazines...but this is applicable in almost all areas of your life. A projection of an image is not reality. Be the best you possible, and let go of the concept of "perfect." It isn't real.
#11: They live minimally
Happy people rarely keep clutter around the house because they know that extra belongings weigh them down and make them feel overwhelmed and stressed out. Some studies have concluded that Europeans are a lot happier than Americans are, which is interesting because they live in smaller homes, drive simpler cars, and own fewer items.
#12: They exercise
Studies have shown that exercise raises happiness levels just as much as Zoloft does. Exercising also boosts your self-esteem and gives you a higher sense of self-accomplishment.
#13: They eat well
Junk food makes you sluggish, and it's difficult to be happy when you're in that kind of state. Everything you eat directly affects your body's ability to produce hormones, which will dictate your moods, energy, and mental focus. Be sure to eat foods that will keep your mind and body in good shape.
#14: They welcome feedback and criticism
Just like rubbing alcohol on a scrape, it will be painful at first. But you'll be better off cleaning strategic areas of your life.
#15: They know that they don't have to drink to have fun
On the opposite side, it is completely fine to drink and have fun too, but don't spend every weekend with the bottle. Drinking is part of college, whether you choose to participate or not, but it's not a part of every night for the rest of your life. Some of the best moments in life are when you're on a walk with your best friend, talking about life...and sober laughter. You will actually remember what's funny the next day.
