5 Scientifically Proven Ways to Be Happier (No Time or Money Required)
It’s no secret that being happier makes life better. In 2020, Americans were the unhappiest they’ve been in 50 years!
But according to science, it’s not as difficult as we might think to boost our happiness levels.
In fact, some of the easiest and most affordable things can make a world of difference. So if you’re looking for a happier life, read on for 5 scientifically proven ways to be happier!
Take Responsibility for happiness
So often, we put our happiness in the hands of others. We wait for our relationships to blossom into something beautiful, for our careers to take off and for our bank accounts to swell.
And when these things don’t happen — as they so often don’t — we are disappointed and even devastated. The truth is, your happiness is your responsibility.
It doesn’t matter what your spouse or your boss or your friends are doing; it’s up to you to find happiness in your own life. And you don’t need time or money to do it.
Spend time with loved ones
Spending time with loved ones has been shown to increase happiness. One study asked participants to either spend time with their partner or spend time alone. The participants who spent time with their partners felt happier.
Another study found that married couples who spent time together were happier than those who didn’t. These findings make sense when you think about it. When we spend time with the people we care about, we feel connected and supported. These feelings can increase our happiness and wellbeing.
Exercise
There’s no need to spend money on a gym membership or expensive workout classes to get in shape. In fact, there are plenty of exercises you can do right at home that are free and effective.
And you don’t even have to set aside a lot of time each day — just 10–15 minutes is enough. A few of our favorites include squats, lunges, push-ups, and planks.
Not only will exercising make you happier, but it will also have a host of other benefits like improving your overall health, mood, and energy levels. So what are you waiting for? Get moving!
Be grateful
Being grateful is scientifically linked with happiness. In one study, participants were asked to keep a daily gratitude journal for 10 weeks. At the end of the study, the participants who kept the journal reported higher levels of happiness and life satisfaction than those who didn’t.
What’s more, gratitude improved their physical health as well! It seems that counting your blessings really can go a long way.
So the next time you’re feeling down, take a few minutes to write out all the things you’re grateful for. It’ll help shift your focus and put a smile back on your face.
Do something for someone else
One of the best ways to increase your happiness is to do something for someone else. Acts of altruism release dopamine in the brain, which makes you feel good. It doesn’t matter how big or small the act is, as long as it’s something you do willingly and from the heart.
Helping others also gives you a sense of purpose and can make you feel more connected to the world. So go out and do something kind for someone today — your happiness will thank you for it!
Your happiness is your responsibility, and thankfully, there are many scientifically proven ways to boost your happiness without spending any money or time.
By taking a few minutes each day to spend time with loved ones, exercise, be grateful, and do something for someone else, you can make a real difference in your overall happiness.
And the best part is that these are all habits that will continue to make you happier even after you’ve achieved your initial goal of becoming happier.
So get started today and enjoy the benefits of a happier life! Next, check out how to unplug and create a more fulfilling life!
