How to: Be happy!

Lately i've found that after doing certain things in my life I have become happier, so I devised a list of everything i've done so far!


Perform random acts of kindness: It doesn't have to be generous or a certain kind (big, social, etc). Just something small, for example, give a friend a lift home or buy a mate lunch! Of course not every day, but the small things like these always come back. Those people will always remember what you did and you will be repaid! If you're walking down the mall and you see a busker you really do love, take the time to find your wallet and give them a couple of dollars. It might just make their day!

Count your blessings:
When I was younger I would take everything for granted (sometimes to this day, I still do). But be grateful for what you do have, whether that be family, friends, a house, a pet or a place. Your problems might seem like the end of the world, but you have a roof over your head and thats one less thing you need to worry about. So don't forget about those little people or things in your life that make it worth while.

Find a hobby:
Whether it be a sport or a skill, do it. If you're having a terrible day/week you'll always have something you enjoy wait for you. For example, I play netball on friday nights. And theres nothing better than knowing that in 2 days i'll be back on court again with my team.

Be healthy:
Food: I honestly feel a lot happier when I eat healthy. Not only am I putting something good into my body, it gives me more energy for my sports and play! If you're not a big fan of healthy food (like me), pack a health work lunch, you'll find that you won't hate it as much knowing theres pizza waiting for you at home.
Exercise: Sport is one of the most exciting ways to stay fit. Netball, soccer, basketball and football are all team games. Not only are you being fit, but you're socialising! If your not a sports person, go for a 30 minute walk once or twice a week with your iPod, nothing is better than listening to your favourite music early in the morning.

Set goals:
Setting short term goals is a great way to keep motivated. The more you tick off, the happier you feel about that goal and what more you can achieve. Start a list of what you want to achieve in the month, whether it be; getting a pass on your math exam or saving a certain amount for an item you really want. It doesn't matter what it is, but when you cross it off your list, it is the most satisfying feeling. Trust me!

Be confident in yourself:
I've always been a person to hide behind friends, but in the past 6 months i've managed to change that. Go out yourself more often, go to the shops for a day and DO NOT call or text anyone - be independent! When you come home it will be the most satisfying feeling. Being confident in yourself is something most people need to work on. Whether it be negative self image or just outright shy (like me) setting little tasks like this will be the most rewarding.

Socialise:
As Woody Allen said "Eighty percent of success is showing up". Make plans with your friends! Go see a movie, go camping, have lunch, ANYTHING!  Making the effort to catch up with friends goes a long way. And if your friends don't make you happy, then maybe your friends with the wrong people, so go and branch out, meet your brother best friend, meet his older sister, meet her best friend. - You'll meet people in the oddest of ways.

Pamper yourself:
At the end of a long day, give yourself something to wind down to. Run a warm bath, have a nice mud mask, add candles and music and remember to turn off your phone!

And las but not least:
STOP COMPARING YOURSELF! We are all our own individual selves. Sure Suzie might have longer hair or Jane might have straighter teeth, but does that really matter? For all you know, Suzie might hate her hair and Jane might have been bullied for the 3 years she had her braces. We're all different for a reason, embrace your flaws. You are you and you cant change it. As confident as everyone looks we all have an insecurity, so don't think you're on your own.