Happiness is a Habit

A January 2008 study on 973 pairs of adult twins, many of whom were identical, found that 50% of happiness was genetic. The remaining 50% was dictated by your behaviors, environment, associations, finances and other factors.

So, 50% of happiness is within your control.

Making happiness a habit requires that you engage in activities that create a constant state of happiness.

Make a List

Make a list of all of the things you are happy and grateful for. Being aware of things that make you happy helps to shift your mindset from negative to positive.

Exercise

Daily exercise boosts the production of certain neurotransmitters, such as dopamine, which is commonly referred to as the happiness neurotransmitter. Dopamine makes you feel upbeat, enthusiastic and excited to be alive.

Doing Something That Excites You

This could be the pursuit of a dream, sports activities, a hobby, exercise, music, art, etc. When you engage in activities that make your heart sing, happiness follows.

Adding Value to the Lives of Others

When you engage in activities that improve the lives of others, that satisfaction, that happiness, sticks. Even better, when those activities can be monetized, you are able to build a career out of helping others and enjoy a lifetime of happiness.

Spend Time With Those You Love

Spending time with our closest relationships give us great satisfaction, or happiness. The more time we spend with our loved ones, the happier we are.

Schedule Happiness Events

Weekends with family/friends, spending time with family/friends at your vacation home, a cruise, a trip to Europe, a night out with loved ones – all of these things represent happiness activities. The more happiness activities you can fill your life with, the happier you will be.