Share

Secrets of Happy People

accreditation
1. Happiness is a state of mind…
Always looking at the glass half empty? Instead, try to see the positive side of each situation. Denied a promotion at work? It could be an incentive to work a little harder, or the push you need to look for a better job.

2. Happiness is about determination…
Instead of sobbing in a miserable heap about all the problems in your life, make a list of what bothers you and how you plan to solve them.

3. Happiness is being appreciative…
Make a list at the end of each day of the things you've completed and congratulate yourself on a job well done. Think about all the good things in your life - a stable job, a loving family etc - and be thankful for it.

4. Happiness includes rewarding and treating yourself…
Put away a bit of money each month and make a list of the things you really want, but cannot see yourself buying. When you have enough money, spoil yourself. You deserve it, after all.

5. Happiness can be manifested through your actions… 
Pay someone – friend, colleague or stranger – a compliment. And mean it. There's nothing more satisfying than knowing that you've made someone's day.

6. Happiness may require you to be detached…
It will help you stay calm and in control of your feelings. Of course you shouldn't confuse this with not caring - all you are doing is not letting things affect you.

7. Happiness calls for some self-growth…
What are your strengths? What are your weaknesses? Getting to know yourself can be as simple as  taking up a new hobby and in the process, discovering a hidden talent. The bonus? You'll meet some new - and possibly interesting - people.

8. Happiness means saying a simple ‘no’ sometimes…
It's okay, we swear! Eliminate activities and tasks that don't bring you joy and for goodness sakes, stop over-committing yourself!

9. Happiness demands forgiveness...

Harbouring negative emotions like anger and hatred can cripple any chance you have at being happy and feeling fulfilled. Remember that letting go has nothing to do with another person – it is an internal battle that challenges you to resolve your own destructive thoughts and emotions.

10. Happiness is learning to accept...
Some things are difficult - others impossible – to change. We may not be content about everything in life, but if it’s out of our control, then it’s best to acknowledge and accept it for what it is, instead of making it bother us.







We live in a world where facts and fiction get blurred
Who we choose to trust can have a profound impact on our lives. Join thousands of devoted South Africans who look to News24 to bring them news they can trust every day. As we celebrate 25 years, become a News24 subscriber as we strive to keep you informed, inspired and empowered.
Join News24 today
heading
description
username
Show Comments ()
Editorial feedback and complaints

Contact the public editor with feedback for our journalists, complaints, queries or suggestions about articles on News24.

LEARN MORE