Happiness isn’t something that suddenly appears, it’s something you notice and build over time. Everyone can find it, but it usually takes practice, patience, and a little effort. Some days it’s easy to see the good and other days it feels impossible. Both are normal. Happiness doesn’t mean every day is perfect; it just means you can still find small moments that matter.
The ideas below won’t make you instantly happy, but they may help you notice more of the good in your life.
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Know where you’ve been and think about where you want to go. Your past doesn’t define you; it just helps you understand what you need.
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Appreciate the people who care. Family, friends, teachers, or others can be part of your support system. No one can do everything alone. Connecting with people who support you helps build happiness.
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Be honest about hard days. Even the happiest people go through hard things. When things get rough, let yourself feel it and reach out for support if you need to. When you have gotten through a tough time, be proud of yourself. Recognize the courage and bravery that it took to make it through that moment.
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Give what you want to get. If you want kindness, start by showing kindness. What you put out there often comes back around.
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Take charge of your choices. You’re the one living your life. Making choices that match
your values helps you feel good about who you’re becoming.
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Take care of your body and your mind. Eat, rest, and do things that make you feel
good. Feeling better physically can make everything else feel a little lighter too.
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Focus on what you can control. Some things are out of your hands, try to put your energy into what you
can change.
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Be real with yourself. Being real takes courage, but it’s worth it. The more real you are with yourself and others, the less heavy you feel.
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Notice the good. Try to notice one small, good thing each day; a song you like, a laugh, or a moment of calm.
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Keep learning as you go. You’re not supposed to be perfect. Mistakes help you grow. Each time you learn something new about yourself, you’re one step closer to who you want to be.
Every day is a new beginning, take a deep breath and start again.
