In order to feel happier, take a look at what you do have and should be thankful for, instead of focusing on what you lack. There are a lot of questions that, when answered, will yield positive results for you. Here are seven things you can ask yourself to feel happier:
1. Am I loved?
I feel happier when I ask myself if I have loved ones in my life. Do you have people around you who truly, deeply care about you and whom you care equally as much about? Our relationships define us, and the quality of those relationships is in many way synonymous with the quality of our lives. Don’t settle for toxic friendships or unhealthy companionships; you deserve better than that. Build and maintain the positive relationships in your life to feel happier.
2. Am I depended on?
When I’m thinking about the level of trust and faith others have in me, I feel a lot happier. Is there anyone that asks you for advice? That looks up to you? That needs your guidance? It’s nice to know you’re needed, and chances are that you’re needed by at least someone. Even if pessimism and self-doubt is more natural to you, try your best not underestimate your worth. Remind yourself of the people who depend on you and take pride in trying to live up to their expectations. When you meet them, and especially when you exceed them, your spirits will soar.
3. Am I without hope?
A negative question can sometimes lead to positive emotions. When you straight up ask yourself if things are hopeless, you’ll have a lot of trouble giving a definitive yes. You’ll start to think about all the reasons you have to say no to the question, reminding you of the hopeful things in your life.
4. How far have I come from ______?
Think about your lowest point, even if doing so is uncomfortable. Then think about how far you’ve come from there. If you’re in a rut, remember how you’ve had it worse than you do now, and how all signs indicate that things will turn around this time, too.
5. Do I have options?
A lot of people’s decisions are made for them. They’re stuck at a dead-end job, trapped in debt, or bound by something equally constricting. Even if one of those situations applies to you, focus on the constrictions you don’t have that a lot of others are unfortunately held back by. I feel happier when I consider how many doors are open to me. Even if everything seems closed, you just have to keep looking. If you’re creative and persistent enough, you’ll find an opening into a better, more fulfilling life.
6. Can I further involve myself in my hobbies?
Consider the things you already enjoy and find a way to make them even more enjoyable. Explore your hobbies and figure out ways to turn them into passions. One way is to take a more active role. Do you like looking at art? Start making it. Do you like reading? Consider becoming a writer. There are so many ways we can become more invested in the things we already love, so look into making that investment in order to feel happier.
7. What am I thankful for?
You don’t have to limit this question to Thanksgiving dinners; it’s one of the best things you can ask yourself all year. I feel happier when I consider what specifics I should be grateful for in my life. If you don’t immediately dwell on the negative you’ll quickly compile a healthy list of things you should be grateful for. You can even write them down, so you have a specific thing you can look at to feel happier.
Featured photo credit: HAPPY/Leo Reynolds via flickr.com
