Happiness. We all want to feel happy, right? It comes in many forms and can be achieved in many ways.

Let’s Define Happiness…

Happiness is an emotional state characterized by feelings of joy, satisfaction, contentment, and fulfillment. While happiness has many different definitions, it is often described as involving positive emotions and life satisfaction. … Happiness is generally linked to experiencing more positive feelings than negative ones. – verywellmind.com

So how does one create their own happiness? Yes, create your own happiness. You should never depend on anyone or anything to create happiness for you. That is an inside job. Here are 3 proven psychology exercises that increase happiness, getting you results in as little as 1 week (if you put in the work).

Try all 3 exercises over the next few weeks, and notice how they affect your mindset, and ultimately, your actions. You might enjoy one more than the other and that’s fine – do what makes you happy, right?! However, challenge yourself to try the ones that make you uncomfortable too – that is where the growth happens – trust me!

3 Blessings

1. Before you go to bed, write down
   three good things that happened
   during the day.
2. Then, write down why each
   of them happened.
3. Think about the impact these
   positive events had on your day.
   How would your day have gone
   if they didn’t happen?
4. Identify three strategies for
   continuing to live in a state
   of thankfulness, manifesting
   more positivity.
5. Write down each time something
   good happens, or actions you take
   to make a bad situation good.

Gratitude Visit

1. Think of someone who has done
   something kind for you who you’ve
   never properly thanked.
2. In a letter, write down exactly what
   they did and the specific effect it had
   on your life.
3. Write and rewrite it multiple times.
   Make it powerful and concise.
4. Handwrite the letter or use
   calligraphy – be creative.
5. Meet the person face to face, and
   read them the letter. Don’t forget
   to bring tissues – tears may flow.

Use your Signature Strengths in New Ways

1. Review the list of 24 signature strengths
   below.
2. Think of ways you already use your
   signature strengths.
3. Brainstorm ways you can use them
   even more, writing down specific
   actions you can take.
4. Commit to using your strengths
   in new ways this week.
5. Carry a small notebook with you and
   write down each time you complete
   an action that utilizes your signature
   strengths. Share with a friend.

You may be thinking, this is a lot of work! Not really if you make it a habit. Start small. Then build from there. In a few months, you could be a new, happier person. Which we all could use more of these days!

*sourced from IIN