The Path to Happiness

8 Steps Towards a More Satisfying Life

1. Count your Blessings

One way to do this is with a "gratitude journal" in which you write down three to five things for which you are thankful - from the mundane (your peonies are in bloom) to the magnificent (a child's first steps). Do this once a week, say, on Sunday night. Keep it fresh by vaying your entries as much as possible.

2. Practice Acts of Kindness

These should be both random (let that harried mom go ahead of you in the checkout line) and systematic (bring Sunday supper to a nelderly neighbour). Being kind to others, whether friends or strangers, triggers a cascade of positive effects - it makes you feel generous and capable, gives you a greater sense of connection with others and wins you smiles, approval and reciprocated kindness - all happiness boosters.

3. Savor Life's Joys

Pay close attention to momentary pleasures and wonders. Focus on the sweetness of a ripe strawberry or the warmth of the sun when you step out from the shade. Some psychologists suggest taking "mental photographs" of pleasurable moments to review in less happy times.

4. Thank a Mentor

If there is someone whom you owe a debt of gratitude for guiding you at one of life's crossroads, don't wait to express your appreciation - in detail and, if possible, in person.

5. Learn to Forgive

Let go of anger and resentment by writing a letter of forgiveness to a person who has hurt or wronged you. Inability to forgive is associated with persistent rumination or dwelling on revenge, while forgiving bolsters positive feelings about your past and gives you peace of mind.

6. Invest Time and Energy in Friends and Family

Where you live, how much money you make, your job title and even your health have surprisingly small effects on your satisfaction with life. The biggest factor appears to be strong personal relationships.

7. Take Care of Yoru Body

Getting plenty of sleep, exercising, stretching, smiling and laughing can all enhance your mood in the short term. Practiced regularly, they can help make your daily life more satisfying.

8. Develop Strategies for Coping with Stress and Hardships

There is no avoiding hard times. Religious faith has been shown to help people to cope, but so do the secular beliefs enshrined in axioms like "This too shall pass" and "Taht which doesn't kill me makes me stronger". The trick in that you have to believe them.