At the end of the year, it’s inevitable to reflect back upon the departing twelve months and to remember the highs, the lows, the great memories, and the hurtful ones. Looking back and knowing that there’s an opportunity to move forward, I’ve decided that my focus in 2018 will be on gratitude.
With busy college schedules and stressful routines, it gets too easy to fall into a trap in which happiness becomes the last priority. And I intend to challenge myself not to fall into that trap next year.
So I’ve asked dozens of family and friends to get their insight on what they do every day to create a bubble of happiness around them. Here are eight ways to create your own happiness:
1. Keep a gratitude journal
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A friend of mine mentioned that she keeps a gratitude journal, and each day she writes down one positive thing that happened to her or that she saw during the course of that day. It forces her to take a minute to reflect back and appreciate the small instances of pure joy she experienced.
2. Have something to look forward to each day
Whether it be hanging out with friends, finishing up a project or just reading a book for pleasure, have something set as a goal for the day and let that thing give your day meaning.
3. Talk with a friend about their life
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When you feel yourself getting into a lull or a spiral in your mind, reach out to a friend and get engrossed in what might be going on with them. It’s a nice reminder that everyone is going through something and that you share common experiences with others.
4. Cook yourself a happy meal
Cooking a yummy meal both provides you with a sense of accomplishment and a delicious meal to chow on after. It’s also destressing, a nice break from studying and a reminder that after all, you’re human and you have to eat.
5. Don’t wake up to social media
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As someone that automatically reaches for my phone to check Snapchat and Instagram the minute I wake up, this will be a new one for me. Swap out your phone alarm for an actual alarm clock and charge your phone at the other side of the room. Check it once you’ve finished getting ready for the morning.
6. Walks are key
Walks do wonders to clear the mind and boost your mood. Whether it be walking to classes or a planned walk in the mornings, take some time to loosen up your body and get endorphins flowing.
7. Cut out mood downers, and add mood boosters
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8. Write, write, write
As a writer, I can’t emphasize enough the power of writing. Write down what makes you happy, what makes you sad, or random thoughts or dreams. It purges the soul and keeps a permanent record of your growth.
2018 is coming up all happy and all grateful!
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