8 Simple Ways To Be Happy

8 Simple Ways To Be Happy

Puff-Sleeve Jumpsuit: Auguste The Label, also found here and here
Straw Bucket Bag: Amazon
Leather Sandals: Naturalizer
Gold Monogram Necklace: Anthropologie

With everything that has been going on with my life and especially with my health (you can read about my original post about having cancer here), I’ve gained perspective on what truly makes me feel happy and overall feel good about life. All these things about being happy are so simple. You don’t need to do a lot or spend a lot of money just to be happy.

I will say that all the things I’ve listed are based on my life experience. In no way do I claim to be an expert. So I completely understand if this might not be relatable. But I hope in some shape or form, it will help you figure out what simple ways in your life can make you feel happier.

8 Simple Ways To Be Happy

Dedicate Time For Yourself

In simple terms, this is self-care. You can’t help others if you haven’t helped yourself first. So do what you like to do. It can be as simple as having a whole day to yourself. I know, it might be difficult with having kids, but maybe put it on a calendar what day is “me time” so you can make an arrangement ahead of time.

Or perhaps it might not even be a whole day. It could be picking up a hobby you loved such as reading, creating an at-home spa night, or binge watching on shows or tv. You know yourself the best, so pick something that is for you only.

For me, I re-discovered my love of reading in the past year and half, or I make sure I dedicate time for my nighttime skincare routine.

Get Your Body Moving

Studies show there are many benefits to exercising. Even on days when I don’t feel like working out, I push myself even for a 15 minute workout. At the end of it, I’m so glad I did it. I feel good about myself, I am more energized, and physically feel stronger. For me, they definitely helped with my cancer side effects.

You don’t have to follow an intense workout routine or regime. It can be as simple as a walk around the neighborhood. When I go for my walks, I walk through different parts of Chicago. Not only does the body movement and fresh air help, but I discover new spots too!

Indulge From Time To Time

Are you someone who has to stick to a budget? Or has to eat healthy meals all the time? Or maybe don’t want to break your daily routine? It’s totally okay to break those cycles or spend money, in moderation of course.

Go ahead and buy yourself that cashmere sweater (btw in my opinion, they really are worth it. I only own two and that’s all you need!). Or go ahead and eat 3 slices of Chicago deep-dish pizza with extra buttery crust. We all need these little luxuries in our life from time to time.

Work Is Not Your Life

I do understand the value of working. If I’m being honest, one of the primary reasons is it is able to provide for my family. But sometimes work can consume your life. In my previous corporate job, I was working around 70 hours a week and yes, part of that was during chemo too. It wasn’t until I had a co-worker that unexpectedly passed away that it hit me hard. My co-worker was young, healthy, and fit and suddenly passed away. And it breaks my heart to learn that work stressed that person out too much.

That’s when it hit me. I don’t want my last thoughts to be about work. At the end of the day, my work is a business. It’s not meant to take care of me. Also, with me still going through cancer, the thought of death is highly prevalent in my head. And I knew right then I had to make an executive decision. I wanted to spend more time with my family, friends, and husband. I want to be happy and see if there is more to life than this job.

Spend Time With Family and Friends

I’m guilty of not spending enough time with family and friends, especially when I had that previous corporate job. My family and friends are the ones that are there for me no matter what, and I want to show my love and appreciation by being with them. Plus, they’re fun to be around! Time is something we can’t get back and we must cherish every moment we have with our loved ones.

Eliminate Toxic Relationships

This is so important. Eliminate anyone (or it could be anything) that has a negative impact on your life. I learned this in college. I felt so stressed about being around certain friends, where I eventually cut people out. Let me tell you, it feels so good! I no longer had to put a fake smile on when I saw them. I’m so much happier, and in the long term I know who my true friends are.

So yes, get rid of the drama or stressor. While there are a lot of things in life that are out of our control, there are some things we can control. And to me, getting rid of bad relationships is in our control. I know it can be difficult and you might be sad. But that’s short term. Like I said earlier, you feel happier long term.

De-Clutter & Organize

Have you ever walked into a space and just feel so zen and relaxed? Think about that space. Is there clutter? Is that space unorganized? I bet you it is clutter-free and very organized.

For me, de-cluttering and organizing has helped me feel so at ease. My husband and I try to de-clutter and organize our home. So when we come home at the end of the day, we feel relaxed. Clutter to me just stresses me out.

To make it easier, start small. You don’t need to do this all at once. For instance, since we are all working from home, start with your workspace. You’ll notice how much more productive you are. I always try at the end of the day to organize my desk so it is ready for me the next morning. Once you completed your workspace, then move on to another spot in your home that you like to spend most of your time.

Disengage From Social Media

This is another favorite tip of mine. Social media is not your life. While I do think there are benefits to social media, there are just as many downsides to it too. More recently, I’ve been off of Instagram and I feel amazing! I’m more focused on what’s going on in my real life, and just go on Instagram when I feel like it. Sometimes I forget social media exists and I’m off it for a week.

This post ended up a lot longer than I anticipated. But I hope these 8 simple ways to be happy are able to help you out! Do you have any additional tips to add to this?

xo RD