Life is hard and stressful. At times we may feel sad or depressed; heartbroken or disappointed. There are ways to increase your happiness/contentment. Here are a few ideas that can help you push the difficult feelings away and make room for happier feelings.

Eight Ideas to Make You Happier

1. Notice the world around you. The world is beautiful and intricate. Look outside and find 5 things you have never seen before. If you look closely at nature, the possibilities are limitless.

2. Learn something new. All you need to do is find a book, look online, or watch TV and there will be something to learn. Start with one thing: It can be as simple as a new way to tie a scarf or tie, or as complex as tackling a new skill.

3. Take care of your body. When you take care of your body you will feel better physically and emotionally. Exercise doesn’t have to mean a gym. Take a 5 minute walk or do a few crunches to begin.

4. Look forward to something. This could be a simple goal, a new book or TV show. Find one thing to do for the weekend.

5. Take a positive approach. Sign up for a daily email that will send a positive note to you. Begin your day with a positive reading, listen to uplifting music, or keep a happiness journal. When you have a negative thought, notice it and choose to replace it with a positive thought.

The next three ideas are ways you can connect to others.

1. Give to others. Giving to others makes people feel better about themselves. Again, the effort can be simple. One woman I know takes her elderly neighbor’s recycling to the curb for her. If you’re ready for something more, there are many volunteer opportunities out there, from helping to clean up a park to sorting food at a food bank.

2. Meet new people. Being with people can help you maintain good physical and emotional health and cognitive function. If you are afraid of making friends, join a group that is structured and has a common goal. That will make it easier because there is a focus, a topic and usually a structure.

3. Be a part of something bigger. There are many causes in the world that need people to help them. It could be a political organization, a church or spiritual community, or a conservation group just to name a few. Where do you start? Make a list of issues that might interest you. Look online, in the community paper, on bulletin boards for organizations or activities that appeal to you.

Where do you start? Make a list of issues that might interest you. Look online, in the community paper, on bulletin boards for organizations or activities that appeal to you.

If you are having trouble making yourself feel better, I have helped many people find happier lives. Call me: (919)881‐2001.