By 
Happiness is not a one-size-fits-all concept. It’s a personal journey that looks different for everyone.
Psychology, however, has identified certain habits that incredibly happy people tend to have in common. These are not quick fixes but rather ways of living that, when practiced consistently, can lead to greater overall happiness.
Being happy is less about what happens to us and more about how we react to what happens. And the good news is, these habits can be learned and cultivated.
I’m going to share with you 9 of these habits of incredibly happy people, backed by psychology.
Let’s dive right in.
1) Embracing gratitude
Gratitude is more than just saying “thank you”. It’s about truly appreciating the good in your life.
According to consistent findings in psychology, practicing gratitude can lead to a significant increase in happiness levels. It is the simple act of focusing on the positive aspects of life and acknowledging the blessings we often take for granted.
Try it out. Keep a gratitude journal, where each day you jot down a few things you are thankful for. This practice can shift your focus from what’s wrong to what’s right in your life, boosting your overall happiness.
It’s not about having what we want, but wanting what we have. And that’s a habit incredibly happy people have mastered.
2) Staying active
We’ve all heard that exercise is good for us, but did you know it’s also a key component of happiness?
Psychology tells us that regular physical activity can boost our mood, reduce stress, and improve our overall mental health. It’s not just about staying fit, it’s about boosting your well-being too.
Here’s a personal example. I used to dread the idea of working out. The thought of sweating it out at the gym or running was overwhelming. But one day, I decided to give it a shot and started with just 15 minutes of yoga every morning.
To my surprise, those 15 minutes became a game-changer. Not only did I feel more energized and focused throughout the day, but my mood also improved significantly. I felt happier and more at peace with myself.
Staying active is not just about physical health. It’s a habit that can lead to incredible happiness as well.
3) Prioritizing experiences over possessions
Incredibly happy people have a unique approach to life. They value experiences more than material possessions. It’s not the new car or the latest smartphone that brings lasting joy, but rather the memories created from experiences like traveling, attending concerts, or even just a simple picnic in the park.
Here’s something to consider: A study published in the Journal of Positive Psychology found that people who made expensive purchases on products rather than experiential investments often devalued the happiness they derived from these items over time. On the other hand, those who invested in experiences derived long-term satisfaction and happiness as they reflected on the memories made.
When you’re torn between buying that expensive gadget or booking a trip, remember this habit of incredibly happy people and choose wisely.
4) Practicing mindfulness
Mindfulness is the habit of being fully present in the moment, aware of where we are and what we’re doing, without overly reacting to or getting overwhelmed by what’s happening around us.
Incredibly happy people have a knack for mindfulness. They don’t let their minds wander into the past or worry about the future. They embrace the present moment, savoring each experience as it comes.
Practicing mindfulness can bring a sense of peace and contentment, reducing stress and anxiety. So whether it’s through meditation, yoga, or simply taking a few minutes each day to focus on your breath, cultivating mindfulness can lead to increased happiness.
5) Maintaining strong relationships
We are social creatures by nature. We thrive on connection, and strong relationships contribute to our overall happiness. It’s not about having a large group of friends or an active social life, but rather about the quality of the relationships we have.
Incredibly happy people understand this. They invest time and effort into nurturing their relationships, be it with family, friends, or co-workers. They listen, show empathy and are there for others in times of need.
Happiness is contagious. When we surround ourselves with positive and supportive individuals, it boosts our own mood and mental well-being. So take the time to connect and engage with the people around you. It can make all the difference in your happiness quotient.
6) Cultivating self-compassion
We often extend kindness and understanding to others when they make mistakes or face challenges, but we can be incredibly hard on ourselves in similar situations.
Incredibly happy people practice self-compassion. They treat themselves with the same kindness and understanding they would give to a good friend. They know that everyone makes mistakes, everyone has weaknesses, and they see these as elements of the shared human experience rather than signs of personal failure.
Self-compassion creates a positive and accepting relationship with oneself. It allows us to acknowledge our imperfections without letting them define our self-worth.
When you stumble or fall short of your expectations, instead of beating yourself up, try extending some of that compassion to yourself. It’s a habit that doesn’t just alleviate pain but also leads to a happier life.
7) Embracing change
Change is a natural part of life. It can be exciting, scary, and often inevitable. But how we perceive and adapt to change can greatly influence our happiness.
Incredibly happy people see change as an opportunity for growth and new experiences, rather than a source of fear or anxiety.
I remember when I had to move to a new city for work. I had to leave behind familiar surroundings, close friends, and the comfort of routine. It was daunting, and honestly, I was scared. But I decided to embrace the change instead of resisting it.
As I settled into my new environment, I discovered new places, made new friends, and experienced personal growth in ways I hadn’t expected. The change that initially seemed so intimidating turned out to be a valuable life experience.
When faced with change, instead of resisting it, try embracing it. It may lead you down a path of unexpected happiness.
8) Practicing optimism
Life is full of ups and downs, and it’s easy to get stuck in a negative mindset when things don’t go our way. However, incredibly happy people have a way of seeing the glass as half full, even in difficult situations.
Optimism doesn’t mean ignoring life’s challenges, but rather having a positive outlook on life and believing in your ability to overcome obstacles.
Studies have shown that optimistic individuals are more likely to experience better physical health, lower levels of stress and depression, and increased lifespan. Optimism can also lead to greater persistence when facing difficulties, as optimists are more likely to believe that their efforts will lead to success.
When you’re faced with a challenge, try to look for the silver lining. Practicing optimism could be your key to incredible happiness.
9) Living authentically
At the heart of incredible happiness lies authenticity – being true to who you are. Incredibly happy people understand the importance of aligning their actions with their values and beliefs.
In a world that often encourages us to conform and fit in, it can be difficult to stay true to ourselves. But there’s immense joy in embracing our uniqueness and living in a way that reflects our true self.
Authenticity fosters a deep sense of self-acceptance and self-respect, leading to higher self-esteem and overall happiness. It’s about being honest with ourselves, acknowledging our feelings, expressing our true thoughts, and standing by our values.
Dare to be yourself. It’s the most liberating and fulfilling thing you can do for your happiness.
Final thought: It’s a journey
Happiness isn’t a destination, it’s a journey. And like any journey, it involves ups and downs, twists and turns.
These habits of incredibly happy people don’t guarantee a life free of challenges or hardships. But they do provide a roadmap to navigate through life with more joy, resilience, and contentment.
Psychologist Martin Seligman, renowned for his work on the theory of ‘authentic happiness’, suggests that true happiness comes from leading a meaningful life – using our strengths and talents to contribute to the greater good.
Each one of us has the power to shape our own happiness. It’s in our daily habits, our actions, our attitudes. It’s in how we treat ourselves and others. How we face challenges and embrace change.
So as you navigate your own journey, remember these habits. Embrace gratitude. Stay active. Cherish experiences over possessions. Practice mindfulness and self-compassion. Nurture relationships. Embrace change. Stay optimistic. Live authentically.
The road to incredible happiness is not a straight path, but with these habits in your toolkit, you are well-equipped for the journey ahead.
