We all want to be as happy as possible and everyone wants an extra reason to smile. But, let’s admit it: life isn’t always a walk in the park. So how do happy people get through a rough day? These tips are small things that happy people do to make life just a little bit better, and now you can try them, too. Just remember: a smile is contagious1, so don’t forget to show off your pearly whites any chance you get.
- Happy people say thank you.
Saying thank you is an easy way to pay it forward and make everyone’s day a little brighter. During a busy day, take a second to stop and be grateful for the small stuff. It may not come naturally, but in the long run, it really will increase your happiness. There are plenty of opportunities to stop and appreciate the little things.
- Happy people go offline.
Obsessing over social media sites is a bad habit that we all have. Make a pact with yourself to unplug every day—you can read a book, call a friend. Just signing off allows you to live your life instead of watching other people live theirs.
- Happy people plan getaways.
Even if you can’t afford a cross continent trip, there are plenty of budget friendly ways to get out there and see the world. Experiencing a new culture or food or a change in scenery is a great way to bring a little extra happiness into your life. Whether you book a trip alone or with a buddy, travelling helps you create memories that you’ll never forget.
- Happy people turn mistakes into lessons.
As much as we try to strive2 for perfection, mistakes are an inevitable3 part of life. While it’s easy to be disappointed when your grades are far from perfect, or a relationship falls apart, focusing on learning from what went wrong will help you turn a mistake into something productive. When something goes wrong, consider it an opportunity to grow and become an even better version of you.
- Happy people give themselves a break.
Studying for long hours is draining4, but there’s a little trick that will help you to be both happier and more productive: take a break. Step out for a brisk walk around the block. Getting your body moving and taking your eyes off your books will help you come back after just five minutes, feeling refreshed and ready to work even harder.
- Happy people build relationships.
Maintaining friendships is an important part of leading a happy and full life. Whether you have a few close friends or a big social circle, keeping in contact and having a buddy to cheer you up can make a huge difference.
- Happy people don’t blame the past.
Instead of dwelling on the things that went wrong in your past, make your time more meaningful by looking to the future. When you stay positive and think about the things you can accomplish, you’re able to find peace with the things that may not have gone your way before.
- Happy people take chances.
Instead of waiting for opportunities to fall into your lap5, take control6. Putting yourself out there can feel like a challenge, but once you take a risk, whether it’s improving your study record or asking a friend out on a date, you will be rewarded.
- Happy people get their beauty rest.
Catching a few extra hours of shuteye7 can make a big difference. When you’re feeling groggy or under the weather, it’s hard to perform well. While you definitely shouldn’t sacrifice your plans, make sure you make time to catch up8 on your sleep.
- Happy people are honest.
They say “honesty is the best policy,” and when it comes to health and
happiness, this couldn’t be truer. Lies9 cause stress and anxiety, and life is too short not to live authentically.
- Happy people don’t compare themselves to others.
Everyone has their own path in life, and when you start to compare your life to that of others, you take the focus away from your personal progress. Envy can be hard to beat, however, try hard to focus on your own successes.
Janka Něničková
Vocabulary:
1/k∂nteidž∂s/ nakazlivý – nakažlivý; 2 usilovať sa o – usilovať o, snažit se o ; 3 nevyhnutný – nevyhnutelný; 4 vyčerpávajúce – vyčerpávající; 5 spadnúť do lona – spadnout do klína; 6 prevezmite riadenie (vašho života) – převezměte řízení (vašeho života); 7 zdriemnutie si, šlofik – zdřímnutí si, šlofík; 8 dohnať – dohnat; 9 klamstvá – lži