8 Steps to Be Happier (and Healthier)

Notice that my title isn’t a grandiose statement such as, “X Steps to Find Happiness” or “How to Be Happy.” Instead, it honestly considers the ambiguity of life, which is that there is no-one size-fits-all equation to achieve, and maintain, happiness. Life is hard. It’s scary, messy, unjust, confusing, and exhausting. But, if you let it, it’s simultaneously beautiful, wonderful, rewarding, and energising. During my short time in this world, I’ve actively attempted to find the activities and practices that provide me with more of the latter and less of the former. At the end of the day, that’s all for which we can really wish, right? More joyfulness than sorrow? Well, let’s jump in and hopefully I can guide you on your path to be happier.

My list is in no particular order because I don’t want to influence the weight you place on each activity/practice. What do you want to focus on in the short term? What’s your weakest area? Strongest? I want you to step back and consider your priorities!

Because I went a little crazy explaining each step, I broke them out into multiple blog posts, but I did provide a high-level overview of each so that you can decide which you’d like to dive into. Enjoy, and please feel free to send me some feedback (preferably positive, but I can pretend to have thick skin and take some ~constructive criticism) if you feel so inclined.

1. Balance Your Eating: Don’t diet, don’t arbitrarily remove food groups, respect your meals & cravings, listen to your body, order what you want
2. Move Your Body: Find the environment and type of movement that motivates, uplifts, and energises your body (and mind)
3. Exercise Your Brain: Listen to podcasts, read books, try apps, and engage in conversation
4. Forgive and Love: Vent and be upset, but then get over it and choose to love
5. Rest, Reflect, & Relinquish: Take the time with yourself to slow down, think about your actions, and let go of what you cannot control
6. Find Your People & Spend Time with Them: Allow numerous types of people into your circle because there can be a place for them all…as long as they serve you just as much as you care for them
7. Seek Discomfort: Do the things that scare you and reap the reward of confidence
8. Gift Others Your Attention: Put the needs of others before your comfort & convenience

Much love,

Bea