Discovering What Makes You Happy And Why
Happiness is an emotion most of us try to foster in our lives. We may know that certain actions, achievements, or interactions will help us feel peaceful, joyful, or satisfied. But sometimes happiness can be elusive, particularly when we’re unsure what exactly brings it on. If you’re struggling to experience happiness as often as you’d like, identifying possible sources of this emotion can be the first step toward nurturing it in your life. Below, we’re discussing a variety of activities, relationships, and experiences that, according to research, can lead to happiness in your life.
What makes you happy: Common sources of happiness
Given our vast differences, it can be hard to create a list of factors that may produce happiness. That said, there are certain endeavors, relationships, and situations that have proven links to increased feelings of well-being, satisfaction, pleasure, and enjoyment. Here are some of the most common sources of happiness.
Hobbies
Studies show that enjoyable activities undertaken in our free time can reduce stress and improve mental and physical health. Most people have a hobby they enjoy, whether it's golf, running, painting, pottery, singing, or reading. These pastimes can take your mind off the challenges you’re experiencing, provide a creative outlet, and lead to a more robust social life. It’s important to note that not all hobbies have to be productive, and you don’t have to be good at a hobby for it to bring you happiness.
Exercise can produce numerous physical and mental health benefits that may increase happiness. Physical activity has been shown to reduce stress, improve mood, and decrease symptoms of depression. Exercise also allows you to set and accomplish goals, which can lead to positive feelings related to achievement and gratification.
Additionally, research suggests that creative pursuits can have a positive effect on an individual’s mental health. Outlets such as writing, painting, and making music can allow a person to express feelings of joy, sadness, or anger in an imaginative and engaging way. Artists have many opportunities to illustrate books, create beautiful paintings, and design everything from clothing and fashion items to architecture, business, and website graphics.
A wide range of hobbies can lead to happiness in your life. Gardening has been linked to feelings of enjoyment, primarily because it allows individuals to spend time outdoors, stay active, and interact with others. Even something as simple as doing a jigsaw puzzle has been shown to have cognitive health benefits that can promote happiness.
Family and friends
Many people find joy in interacting with immediate family and other relatives. Family relationships can be some of the deepest and most supportive bonds you form. According to a survey from the Pew Research Center, 83% of adults in the US find spending time with family rewarding. Connecting with family is a way to experience the feelings of closeness and familiarity often formed by people who have grown up together.
As people grow older, they often create families of their own. Finding a partner whom you can love and trust can produce feelings of contentment. Also, many adults often find that their friends become the primary constituents of their support systems, which is helpful because there is thought to be a strong correlation between friendship and happiness. In fact, researchers in one study discovered that individuals who had a happy friend living nearby were 25% more likely to be happy themselves.
If you’d like to strengthen your support network, consider reaching out to friends or family with whom you may have lost touch; or try to get to know casual acquaintances better. You can also take advantage of meetups with groups of people who have similar interests as you. Putting yourself out there in social situations can lead to strong relationships and increased happiness.
Volunteering
There is a substantial body of evidence linking altruistic acts to improved mental well-being. Helping others can give you a sense of purpose while also making a difference in your community. There are plenty of opportunities to give your time in service of causes that are important to you. Maybe you’d like to help bring in donations at a local food bank or clean up waterways with an environmental non-profit? Have you always wanted to work in a nursing home, mentor young people, or build houses for people in need? Consider using a site like VolunteerMatch or directly contacting an organization near you to find out about volunteer opportunities.
Self-care
Self-compassion is thought to have a positive effect on our mental well-being. Self-care—which refers to activities that enrich your life and nourish your body and mind—can help you take time for yourself and tend to your own needs. Self-care can include everything from indulging in a warm bath, or getting a massage, to taking a long walk.
Practicing self-care can reduce stress, improve physical health, and produce other benefits that may contribute to happiness. Consider developing self-care routines that incorporate several different activities. A nighttime routine may include meditation, journaling, drinking herbal tea, and tending to personal hygiene, while a morning routine may include deep breathing, eating a healthy breakfast, and taking a short walk.
Pets
Animals have long brought joy to people’s lives through companionship affection, and loyalty. Research suggests that pets can help improve mental health challenges by providing distractions from potentially harmful symptoms or experiences and helping owners meet others who enjoy animals. Additionally, interacting with a pet can cause the brain to release oxytocin (often called the "love hormone"), which promotes feelings of relaxation, positivity, and trust. Taking care of a pet can also encourage you to be more physically active.
Many animal shelters allow you to adopt pets at a reduced cost (free, in some cases). If you’re unable to have pets due to financial reasons or housing restrictions, consider volunteering at a local shelter or fostering a pet temporarily as it waits for a permanent home.
Gratitude
We often become so focused on what we want that we forget to appreciate what we already have. Studies show that there is a connection between gratitude and mental wellness. Expressing thanks can help us reframe challenging situations in a more positive light and direct our attention toward those things that are going well in our lives.
For example, if you’re having a difficult week at work, you may try to focus on the fulfillment that having a job brings you. Or you could remind yourself that you enjoy solving difficult problems—after all, taking on challenges can lead to happiness. Consider keeping a gratitude journal or simply taking time to think about what you’re thankful for each day.
Self-concept
Part of both figuring out what will make you happy and becoming happy is learning who you are. There is evidence that having a clear sense of self—often referred to as self-concept clarity—is linked to happiness. Some people are unsure of who they are, while others feel obligated to make certain choices and strive for goals that may not align with what they truly want out of life.
Understanding your strengths, weaknesses, values, and beliefs may help you feel more self-assured and comfortable with who you are. For example, knowing and accepting that you’re the type of person who prefers to stay home and read a book, as opposed to going out, can help you feel more confident declining offers that you aren’t inviting to you.
If you’ve struggled to develop self-concept clarity, take some time to think about your ambitions, qualities, and morals. Consider the different ways you’re unique as a person. Find out whether there are goals or attributes to which you have committed or pursued that no longer serve you. A solid understanding of who you are can be vital to your ability to create a happy life.
Fostering happiness with online therapy
Studies show that online therapy can help individuals address challenges that may be affecting their happiness. For example, in one study, participants reported experiencing “significant increases in happiness” and reductions in depressive symptoms following an online therapy program. The study notes that these results were sustained for six months post-treatment.
Discover what makes you happy in online therapy
If you’re looking to cultivate positivity, joy, and fulfillment in your life, consider getting matched with a licensed therapist online. Using an online therapy platform like BetterHelp, you can connect with a mental health professional remotely, which can be helpful if depression or a similar challenge makes leaving home difficult. BetterHelp works with thousands of providers—who have a wide range of specialties—so you’ll have a good chance of matching with someone who can help you overcome the specific obstacles that may be in the way of your happiness.
Takeaway
What things make you happy?
Happiness is a subjective experience, and what makes one person happy may differ from what makes another person happy. However, there are common factors and experiences that tend to contribute to true happiness in many individuals through life’s ups and downs. Some of these include:
- Positive relationships: Happiness increases may be related to having healthy and supportive relationships with positive people, including family, friends, and loved ones.
- Achievement and success: Accomplishing personal goals, whether big or small, can lead to feelings of satisfaction and happiness.
- Physical and mental health: Good health, both physically and mentally, may be a foundational element of happiness.
- Love and intimacy: Experiencing love, romance, and intimacy in one's life can be a major source of increased happiness levels.
- Meaningful work: Finding fulfillment in one's career or work, feeling valued, and having a sense of purpose can contribute to happiness.
- Engagement and flow: Engaging in activities that challenge and absorb your attention can lead to a state of "flow," where you lose track of time and experience happiness.
- Giving and acts of kindness: Helping others and performing acts of kindness can create feelings of happiness and fulfillment.
- Leisure and enjoyment: Engaging in hobbies, leisure activities, and experiences that bring joy and relaxation can enhance happiness.
- Gratitude: Cultivating a sense of gratitude for the positive aspects of life can lead to greater happiness.
- Nature and beauty: Connecting with nature, appreciating art, and enjoying beautiful surroundings can evoke feelings of happiness.
What is the main reason to be happy?
Happiness may be a fundamental and desirable human emotion that enhances our overall subjective well-being and quality of life. While there isn't a single "main" reason for happiness, several important factors contribute to the value of being happy:
- Positive mental and emotional state: Happiness is associated with a positive mental and emotional state as well as improved self-esteem. It can improve mood, reduce stress, and increase feelings of joy and contentment.
- Improved health: Research suggests that happy individuals tend to enjoy better physical and mental health, which can lead to a longer and more fulfilling life.
- Resilience: Happy people often display greater resilience in facing life's challenges. They are better equipped to cope with setbacks and bounce back from adversity.
- Better relationships: Happiness can enhance social relationships by making individuals more pleasant to be around, improving communication, and fostering strong connections with others.
- Increased productivity and creativity: Happy individuals often exhibit greater productivity and creativity, as their positive emotional state can boost motivation and problem-solving abilities.
- Optimism and positivity: Happiness is linked to a more optimistic and positive outlook on life, which can lead to a greater sense of hope and an ability to see opportunities in various situations.
- Motivation: Happy people tend to be more motivated to pursue their goals and make positive changes in their lives.
What makes you happy as a student?
The factors that contribute to happiness as a student may vary from one student to another and may include things like learning, getting involved, academic success, finding a dream job, and finding a sense of purpose. What may be most important is to identify what makes you happy and to prioritize those aspects of your academic journey that bring you joy and fulfillment. Balancing academic success with personal well-being and happiness is key to a successful and fulfilling student experience.
How to make yourself happy?
Improving your own happiness may involve adopting habits and strategies that promote your emotional well-being and life satisfaction. You do not have to spend money to find happiness. Here are 10 steps to help you cultivate happiness:
- Practice gratitude: Regularly acknowledge and appreciate the positive aspects of your life, both big and small, finding happiness in day-to-day life. Gratitude can shift your focus from what you lack to what you have without spending money on new things.
- Positive mindset: It may be beneficial to cultivate a positive attitude and challenge negative thinking.
- Engage in activities you love: Make time for activities and hobbies that bring you joy and fulfillment. Doing what you love can boost your happiness and may put you in a good mood.
- Build meaningful relationships: Nurture your social connections and invest in strong, supportive relationships. Telling experiences and emotions with others can enhance your happiness.
- Take care of your health: Prioritize physical and mental health through regular exercise, a balanced diet, adequate sleep, and stress management techniques.
- Set and pursue goals: Define clear goals and work towards them. Achieving personal and professional goals can bring a sense of accomplishment and happiness.
- Practice mindfulness: Stay present in the moment and be mindful of your thoughts and emotions. Focusing on your inner self can reduce stress and increase overall sense of well-being.
- Help others: Acts of kindness and generosity, whether volunteering or helping someone in need, can boost your happiness and sense of purpose.
- Manage stress: Develop effective stress management techniques, such as meditation, deep breathing, or relaxation exercises, to cope with life's challenges.
- Self-care: Prioritize self-care by taking time for yourself, setting boundaries, and engaging in activities that rejuvenate and relax you.
How do you keep yourself happy and positive?
Keeping yourself happy and positive may vary based on individual preferences. For some people, practicing mindfulness and gratitude may be a good place to start. Understanding your own mind and body can help you to identify areas where you may need some more attention. Practicing gratitude has increased an individual’s happiness by drawing attention to the good things in life.
Outside of mindfulness and gratitude, individuals may also stay happy through exercise and eating a healthy diet. Exercise increases “feel good” chemicals in the body and brain while also helping to repress illness. This, along with eating a healthy diet, may contribute to long-term happiness and health.
What makes youth happy?
Youth, like individuals of all ages, find happiness through a combination of factors and experiences. Here are some key elements that contribute to the happiness of young people:
- Positive relationships: Building and nurturing positive relationships with friends, peers, and family members is a significant source of happiness for youth. These relationships provide emotional support, social connections, and a sense of belonging.
- Achievement and success: Accomplishing personal goals, whether in academics, sports, arts, or other areas, can bring a sense of achievement and happiness to youth.
- Learning and curiosity: Youth are often naturally curious, and the process of learning, exploring new ideas, and gaining knowledge can be intrinsically rewarding and lead to happiness.
- Independence and autonomy: As young people grow and gain independence, having the freedom to make decisions, set goals, and pursue their interests can contribute to happiness.
- Sense of identity: Developing a sense of self-identity and understanding one's values, beliefs, and personal strengths can lead to self-assurance and happiness.
Where is happiness in life?
Happiness in life can be found in a variety of places, both within yourself and in your external experiences. Here are some areas where happiness can be located:
- Within yourself
- Relationships
- Achievements and Fulfillment
- Community and Society
- Nature and Environment
- Leisure and Fun
- Self-Care and Health
- Balance
- Purpose and Meaning
What is the best way to be happy and successful?
Happiness and success are interconnected but also highly individualized. What makes one person happy and successful may differ from what makes another person content. The best way to achieve both may be to align your actions and choices with your personal values and aspirations while taking care of your well-being along the way. Some keys to being happy and successful may include:
- Define your goals and values: Start by clarifying your personal and professional goals. Understand what truly matters to you and align your pursuits with your values. This may not have to do with making more money, it may be focused on other areas such as time, relationships, or autonomy.
- Positive mindset: Cultivate a positive and growth-oriented mindset. Challenge negative thoughts and embrace optimism in the face of challenges.
- Work-life balance: Strive for a healthy work-life balance. Balance your professional aspirations with personal time for relaxation, hobbies, and social activities.
- Self-care: Prioritize self-care, including physical and mental well-being. Exercise, eat healthily, get enough sleep, and engage in stress-reduction practices like mindfulness or meditation.
- Effective time management: Manage your time effectively by setting priorities, setting goals, and organizing your tasks to achieve both personal and professional success.
- Resilience: Develop resilience to bounce back from setbacks and failures. Embrace challenges as opportunities for growth.
- Relationships: Build and maintain positive relationships. Cultivate supportive social connections with family, friends, mentors, and colleagues.
- Communication skills: Hone your communication skills, including active listening and effective expression. Strong communication is crucial for success in both personal and professional life.
- Embrace change: Be open to change and adaptability. Embrace opportunities for innovation and transformation in your life and career.
- Purpose and meaning: Seek a sense of purpose and meaning in your actions and decisions. Find ways to contribute to the well-being of others and the community.
- Set boundaries: Establish clear boundaries in your personal and professional life to safeguard your well-being and focus on your priorities.
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