15 Ways to Become Happier

It’s a brand new year, so let’s kick it off with a smile on our faces! Follow our top 15 Things to make you Happy and we guarantee that you’ll be beaming all the way through the year.

People worry that wanting to be happier is a selfish goal, but in actual fact, research shows that happier people are more sociable, likable, healthy, and productive.

Put a smile on your face and become a happier person by following our frown bustings tips:

1. Cuddle

According to the experts cuddling for just 20 seconds a day releases the feel good hormone oxytocin into the blood stream which helps to create feelings of trust, reduces stress and lowers levels of anxiety. We won’t go so far as to suggest you go around hugging strangers, but why not give a loved one a squeeze before you head out the door to work or school in the morning?

2. Save £1.66 a Day

No we haven’t gone completely bonkers, saving £1.66 will genuinely make you happier - it’s been scientifically proven and everything. Not only does saving directly lift your mood it’s not too bad on your pockets either. By skipping your daily coffee and pocketing the change, it will soon all add up. On average you could be saving £50 a month, which is a whopping £600 a year!

3. Eat Fish

Omega 3 fats which can be found in cold-water fish like salmon are the happy fats that build the brains neurons and produce more of the feel good hormone, serotonin. Plus all that omega 3 is bound to make you smarter too and as a resut happier. 

4. Look at Something Cute

Look at a picture of something cute and instantly cheer up - genius. After a pretty extensive scientific study, the Japanese (who else) concluded that looking at photos of kittens, puppies and other cute baby animals makes us generally happier and more productive at work. If you don’t have something cute of your own…we suggest you get on Google.

5. Clean Sheets

Ok, so actually changing the bed might seem like a bit of a chore, but nothing quite beats the feeling of settling down into some fresh crisp sheets once it’s done.

6. Say YES 

Go on we dare you.

7. Keep a Plant Alive

Keeping plants alive indoors can prove next to impossible to some, but if we can do it so can you! Nothing will quite put a smile on your face like seeing the outcome of all of your hard work. Just remember plants need light, water and attention – so don’t go forgetting to water them or leaving them near a radiator.

8. Smell Something Nice

Studies have shown that smells can have a huge effect on your mood. A whiff of something lovely will not only perk you up but banish feelings of anxiety too. The best mood enhancing scents are Jasmine, freshly baked bread, grass cuttings, lemon, liquorice and lavender.

9. Give to Charity

No matter how big or small, we’ve all got loose change that we can spare to the less fortunate. Apparently, spending money on other people is the key to feeling content. A study by a leading physiology magazine has shown that the happiest people are the biggest givers – go figure. According to the study acts of kindness have a positive and long lasting effect on how happy we are.

10. Forget your 5 a Day

Scientists say you'll be healthier and happier by eating a whopping SEVEN daily portions of fruit and veg. The research showed that those who eat 7-8 portions a day felt more cheerful, loved and optimistic. Although we don’t know exactly how fruit and veg improves our wellbeing, what we do know is that they contain chemicals called antioxidants, which are thought to reduce stress levels.

11. Look out for the Colour Blue

We know what you’re thinking, but blue is actually a very relaxing colour and has been linked to happiness. It lowers blood pressure, calms, gives a sense of security, and even suppresses appetite (perfect for anybody on a New Year health kick) Throwing on a blue jumper, some blue nail polish or even flashing up a blue screen saver on your PC should do the trick.

12. Sleep on the Left Side of the Bed

Scientists revealed that on average, those who sleep on the left  hand side of the bed are happier than their right-sided counterparts. More than a quarter of lefties asked had a more positive outlook on life and were generally more upbeat - now you’ve got no excuse to wake up on the wrong side of the bed anymore!

13. Try Something New

Research has shown that people who are more adventurous, enjoy new experiences, and switch up their routines are more likely to be happier. 

14. Get a God Night's Sleep

There's no denying that we all feel much happier after a good night's sleep. Getting a proper amount of sleep each night plays a huge part in ensuring a high quality of life. Set a regular sleep schedule and stick to it, even on the weekends!

15. Act Happy

If all else fails, fake it until you feel it. Research has shown that even a pretend smile will boost your mood. If you're smiling, other people will perceive you as being friendlier and more approachable.