'Happiness is a mindset and choice:' Here are 9 steps to living a happier life

Three Rivers School

There are many books, articles and even a free online Yale class you take on the “Science of Well-Being.”

There is no one-size-fits-all formula for well-being or happiness. What makes me happy does not necessarily make someone else happy. There may be misconceptions about happiness in your mind that prevent you from being happy. The line of thinking that you would be happy if only you lived in a bigger house or made more money just isn't true.

Happiness is a mindset and choice, in my humble opinion, and while it can be fleeting, there are science-backed steps or actions to take to become happier.

Ashton Graham

While the economy and the invasion of Ukraine weigh heavily on our minds, it is important to be optimistic and embrace a positive mindset. If you want to live a happier more fulfilling life here are nine suggestions — some with scientific research behind them and some personal.

Practice gratitude daily with a journal. Try writing three things each day that you are grateful for and try not repeat the same thing day after day. Look for the positive rather than the negative aspects in your lfie.

Meditate. For three minutes a day set a timer (I adore the free version of the Insights Timer app), sit still, follow and count your breaths to 10. Inhale one, exhale two, inhale three, exhale four. If you loose count, start over.

Exercise. Get up and move for at least 10 minutes a day. Put down the phone, get away from the computer. The more you move the better you will feel.

Keep your mind active. Strive to improve yourself, learn new things, fall in love with a hobby. While you don’t need to attend school, perhaps just reading a nonfiction book to learn something new.

Practice self compassion and self care. Do not beat yourself up with negative talk and be kind to yourself — this doesn’t mean indulging in cakes and cookies but taking care of yourself inside and out.

Practice kindness/volunteer. Sometimes the simplest act can make the biggest difference in another person’s life. Practicing compassion and generosity daily has positive effects on your well being.

Sleep. Getting enough rest is key to a happy healthy lifestyle.

Cope with change and stress. It is important to have mechanisms in place that help you cope with change and difficulties. This may be as simple as reframing your thinking from negative to positive and figuring out what you can and cannot control.

Prioritize your time. Life goes by in a flash. Figure out what is important to you and what is not. Learn to balance your work life and your home life.

Story continues

Try practicing some of these strategies with intention for a month and see if they make a difference. Embrace who you are to the core and live the way you want to live. There are many benefits of being happy a few of which include better relationships, ability to combat stress more effectively, more focus and concentration. Laugh, smile and be happy. Life is short.

Feel free to share your thoughts with me: [email protected].

Ashton Graham is an educator, book publisher, photographer, cowgirl and yoga enthusiast. She is currently studying to become a certified yoga therapist and lives on a ranch in West Texas. Visit www.ashtoncannon.com to learn more.

More Maintaining Balance:

This article originally appeared on Las Cruces Sun-News: Ashton Graham's 9 steps to living a happier life