9 Simple Rules for a Happy Life that You Can Follow Today

As I was reading an old diary, I came across old entries where I wrote about how I felt during the pandemic (a tough time for us all). On the other pages, I had gratitude lists and a few musings about the world. Looking at it, I realized that even at my lowest point, I remained confident in surpassing challenges because of my supportive family and because I applied the things outlined in this post.

“You only live once, but if you do it right, once is enough” - Mae West

9 Simple Rules for a Happy Life

Here are some simple rules for a happy life that you can follow. None of these require money, but commitment is necessary if you want to see the noticeable changes it can create in your life.

1. Have an attitude of gratitude

If you don’t have a gratitude journal yet, consider getting one. It could be any notebook, but preferably something with a design that suits your style and personality (so you get excited to open it).

Writing down the things that are working in your life and the blessings you have is the quickest way to bring about positive emotions, which can inspire action on your part. It also puts you in a gratitude mindset (which attracts more blessings into your life) and keeps you optimistic even during hard times.  

2. Keep your inner child alive

You have been an innocent, fun-loving child once, with untarnished views of the world- no judgment or biases.

To the young mind, it was easy to play, dream, forgive, and create. That was until you got a taste of the real world and the realities of living in it. Can you remember the moment you lost your innocence? How about the last time you felt like a kid again? I hope that no matter how busy you get, you still find time to make that inner kid smile. It's a part of who you are. Go out and do something you love. Treat yourself.

3. Make time for jogging, exercise, or stretching

Thankfully, there are now many workout and yoga videos on YouTube that you can watch at home (and you can follow them at your own pace too), so there's no more excuse not to exercise. But if you want to level up your game and commit to a program at your local gym, that's even better.

4. Don’t feel bad about letting go- it’s okay

There will be moments when you have to decide whether or not to keep certain people in your life (the same goes for habits and material belongings). But how do you know the answer? It lies in the life you want to build. If you want a peaceful life, you should let go of people who constantly complain or put others down. If you want to develop discipline, you should quit your lazy habits. If you aspire to have a minimalist lifestyle, you can start by selling or giving away old items.

Letting go comes with change, and it can be uncomfortable at first, but you'll get the hang of it.

5. Expose yourself to nature & healthy environments

Mother Nature is a natural healer; this is why it's easier to feel calm when you go on a hike, hit the beach, or take a walk in the park. It touches the soul through its beauty and music (like the waves crashing or the leaves rustling). You can also get a good dose of oxygen and inspiration from the great outdoors.

Aside from nature exposure, you should immerse yourself in the right environments whenever possible. It can make all the difference in how you feel, perform, or respond to stressful situations. You know you're in a healthy environment when there is mutual respect and trust among the people in it- when you feel motivated or inspired.

6. Surround yourself with good people

If you want to stay inspired, happy, and motivated, you must surround yourself with good people who share the same values as yours. They will provide a supportive environment to help you grow better as an individual (compared to spending time with those who whine too much, as they can drain your energy).

Being with the right company of good people is also one of the best ways to multiply the positive energy in your life. Better yet, be in the presence of those better than you, as they can teach you many things.

7. Set personal and professional boundaries

It's fun to get all friendly and acquainted with others, but it can also be draining in the long run if you don't put boundaries in place. Others can get too close for comfort.

To draw the line, you can start with simple actions like saying no when you don't want to, taking some time off from work, or limiting unwanted interactions. From here, you can proceed to work on other boundaries (physical, financial, digital, or emotional).

8. Let other people enjoy what they want to enjoy

There is a short saying that best expresses this thought: live and let live.

As long as no one got hurt, offended, or violated by that person's words or actions, there is no reason to rain on someone else's parade. Be happy for others instead. Let people enjoy the things or achievements they worked hard for.

It is wise to be careful with opinions and judgment about others because you never know what sacrifices they had to make to get to where they are.

9. Remember: true luxuries don't have a price

Enjoying the finer things in life can bring you excitement, but true luxuries such as good health, peace of mind, and loving relationships make life worth living. You can buy a bed, but not a good night’s sleep. You can buy a book, but not knowledge. You can buy a watch, but not time. You get the idea.

I guess that would be all for today. Thanks for stopping by and I hope you have a great year ahead! 😊

➡️ READ NEXT: Here's What to Expect When you Visit Batu Caves in Malaysia ⬅️

➡️ READ NEXT: At the World's Tallest Building | Burj Khalifa ⬅️