January Gloom? Try These 10 Easy Steps To Happier Living

There is no denying that January can be a little rough. Between the weather and the empty bank accounts and the promises we have made ourselves to lay off anything that isn't green, sugar-free and good for us, it is easy to fall into a bit of a gloomy state of mind this month. But there is no need to wait for brighter (and richer) days to feel happy and full of energy again. According to Action for Happiness, a nonprofit organization who work to spread the message of what really makes people happy, these ten easy-to-follow (and evidence-based) steps will have you skipping with joy and laughter in no time. 1. Giving: Do things for others Try: Do some random acts of kindness today. Try to bring a smile to others – making other happy does really make you feel great. 2. Relating: Connect with other people Try: It can be hard for us time-squeezed mums, but making time for those who really matter will truly make you a happier person. 3. Exercising: Take care of your body Try: Exercising releases endorphins in your body – they are your very own natural feel-good "drugs". 4. Appreciating: Notice the world around Try: At least once a day, stop and take five minutes to just breathe and be in the moment. 5. Emotion: Take a positive approach Try: Stop focusing on the negative and always look for the silver lining. Smile, even if you don't feel like it at first, and see how it literally lifts your mood straight away. 6. Trying out: Keep learning new things Try: Any new skill, big or small, will make you feel like you are accomplishing something, which in turn will boost you to feel better. 7. Acceptance: Be comfortable with who you are Try: You know how you always try to be kind to and respect others? Do the same to yourself; always. 8. Direction: Have goals to look forward to Try: Working towards a goal will give you something to look forward to – a great mood-booster. 9. Resilience: Find ways to bounce back Try: Don't be afraid to talk about feelings or failures. And always feel like you can ask for help. 10. Meaning: Be part of something bigger Try: Open up your life and time to something outside you and your closest. Volunteer, get involved, and you will soon reap the happy benefits. Have YOU any great tips on how to feel happier and more content with your life? What do you do to feel better if you are feeling a little down? Let us know in an e-mail to Trine.Jensen@Herfamily.ie