Living In Gratitude: 30 Habits to Cultivate Happiness

It is an understatement to say that 2020 has been a challenge. We are experiencing unprecedented uncertainty and so much of life feels out of our control.

Yet there are still ways to seek happiness even while we collectively experience the grief, stress, fear, and anxiety this year has wrought.

The next time you find yourself feeling lost, read through this list of these 30 habits that promote happiness. Pick one or two items that resonate with you in the moment.

  1. Be kind
  2. Eat healthy, nutritious food
  3. Move your body – take a walk, ride a bike, dance in your living room
  4. Meditate – even five minutes can calm and center you
  5. Be honest – share the truth in a soft yet firm manner
  6. Be patient with yourself and others
  7. Smile often
  8. Love yourself, faults and all
  9. Forgive easily – let go of that grudge
  10. Dream big
  11. Drink lots of water and get enough sleep
  12. Think positively – negative thoughts don’t serve us
  13. Believe in yourself
  14. Express gratitude and appreciation
  15. Keep an open mind
  16. Give yourself and others space and grace
  17. Find the good in others and share it
  18. Listen to understand rather than to respond
  19. Choose hope over fear
  20. Make the most of now
  21. Exercise self-discipline
  22. Avoid comparing yourself to others
  23. Look for the silver lining – it is always there for those who seek it
  24. See failure as an opportunity for learning and growth
  25. Spend time with people who lift you up
  26. Let go of what holds you down and what can’t be changed
  27. Take time today to connect with one important person in your life
  28. Breathe deeply
  29. Take time away from social media and the news – watch something educational, inspiring, or funny
  30. Immerse yourself in the beauty of nature

If you want to be happy, be. – Leo Tolstoy

If this year has taught us anything, it is that we each can choose to be happy…or not. When we finally let go of our preconceived ideas, of what we expected and anticipated, we can find moments of joy.

Happiness is always there, even during the darkest times.

May your day be filled with gratitude, moments of happiness, and good things.