Use the Science of Happiness to be a Happier Person

Most would agree that depression is the opposite of happiness.  It is interesting to know that happiness has become a science in recent years, referred to as Positive Psychology.  Scientists have studied what behaviors and attitudes are found in happier people.  In doing so, they also learned that unhappy people who mimic the behaviors of happy people actually become happier.  You can learn how to use Positive Psychology to avoid depression and become a happier person.

Smile

Studies have proven the positive effects of smiling happen if your smile is genuine or faked.  Smiling will cause your body to create more dopamine, giving your mood a positive boost.  AS the saying goes, fake it till you make it.

Compliment Others

Psychologists have found that people who were randomly kind to others were much happier.  It did not matter how large or small the acts of kindness were.  Other things you can do to be happier:  feed a stranger’s parking meter, donate blood, or write a thank you note.

Exercise

Exercise is not only good for your body, it is good for your mind. It is affective at helping people avoid depression because it relieves, stress and improves self-esteem.

Connect with Friends and Family

Researchers have found that very happy people have good relationships with friends and family, and these connections are the primary reason for their satisfaction with life. A great way to strengthen the ties with your loved ones is to set aside one night each week when you and your relatives can get together for dinner.

Forgiveness

You can change your upsetting memories into more positive feelings by forgiving those who have wronged you.  If you can do this, you will also be more capable of forgiving yourself when you make mistakes.  Genuine forgiveness will make you less angry, better able to cope with stress and more optimistic.

Stay Positive

To achieve happiness, you should try to experience positive emotions 75% of the time.  This means deciding not to linger on your poor finances and instead focusing on the fact that you have your health.  Practice focusing on the good things in your life more often and you will feel happier.

Practice your Strengths

Studies show that people who engage in a profession that uses their strong qualities are six times more likely to be happy. In addition, thinking about your job as a “calling” rather than your employment will give you a greater sense of enrichment from your work.

Set Goals

Psychologists have learned that people who set goals have more self-esteem and live happier lives.  Goal setting allows you to see your life as a meaningful experience and gives your existence a purpose.

You may not be able to take all these steps right away, especially if you have made a habit of dwelling on your bad feelings.  Try one of these steps at a time and add to your expertise over time.  Like anything, happiness takes practice, time and patience.