Maintaining a positive outlook on life can sometimes feel like a challenge, but incorporating small, everyday actions can make a significant difference in lifting your mood. Here are some practical tips and insights on how to boost your happiness and well-being.

A little activity every day: Engaging in small activities daily can greatly enhance your mood. Opt for the stairs instead of the lift or take short breaks to stretch your legs if you're seated for long periods. These minor adjustments not only improve your physical health but also boost your mental well-being.

Connect with friends: Meeting a close friend for a walk or making a phone call if they are far away can work wonders for your mood. Conversations with someone you care about can make you feel supported and less stressed. According to research, such interactions can strengthen your immune system, improve heart health, and overall enhance your mood.

John Hopkins Medicine emphasises that taking steps to improve physical health can help boost mood and ward off depression.

Here are some QUICK tips to lift your mood:

1. Chat! – Engage in a real conversation with a cheerful friend.
2. Smile! – Simply smiling can lead to a positive mood.
3. Laugh! – Find something that makes you laugh.
4. Think positively! – Focus on positive thoughts.
5. Meditate – Take time to relax and clear your mind.
6. Get moving! – Physical activity is a great mood booster.
7. Look at old photos! – Reminisce happy memories.
8. Listen to happy music! – Play your favourite upbeat tunes.
9. Play with your pet! (or some else’s) – Spending time with pets can be very uplifting.
10. Have a little dark chocolate – A small treat can improve your mood.
11. Go outside and exercise – Fresh air and exercise are vital.
12. Eat something healthy – Nourish your body with healthy foods.
13. Have sex – Physical intimacy can boost mood.
14. Rest – Ensure you are getting enough sleep.
15. Take a break or a holiday – A break can rejuvenate your spirit.

How to fix a low mood and overcome sadness:

1. Acknowledge what’s happening: feel and observe the sadness – It’s okay to feel sad. Acknowledge your emotions and your feelings. Identify what makes you unhappy. Share with friends, family, or a health professional.
2. Take care of yourself – Prioritise self-care and make simple lifestyle changes in order to feel happier. Physical activity can improve mood.
3. Embrace the present – Live in the moment. This removes anxiety.
4. Maintain connections with others – Stay in touch with loved ones.
5. Raise your self-esteem and be kind to yourself – Practice self-compassion and be gentle with yourself. Work on feeling better about yourself.
6. Perform regular aerobic activity – Keep your body moving. Great for the circulation too!
7. Seek professional help – If sadness persists, consult a professional. Make an appointment with a counsellor, because talking through your concerns can provide relief.

Ways to increase joy:

1. Do something joyful! – Engage in activities that bring you joy.
2. Develop gratitude – Appreciate what you have. This is powerful indeed!
3. Dedicate yourself to others – Helping others can bring joy. Mum lived by that maxim and was one of the happiest people I’ve ever known.
4. Connect with your spiritual side – Explore spiritual practices.
5. Discover something new – Learn and grow.
6. Take moments of pleasure – Enjoy little moments of happiness.
7. Pay attention to the good – Focus on positive aspects of life.
8. Limit negativity – Reduce exposure to negative influences.

By integrating these practices into your daily routine, you can significantly enhance your mood and overall quality of life. Remember, small steps can lead to big changes.

If you are having suicidal thoughts, please contact Lifeline for immediate help (13 11 14).