Do you think the world could use more happiness? Could you use more happiness in your life? I know that I sure do! Research proves that when your brain functions at a positive level, it performs 31% better than it does at neutral or negative! Interesting right? This is what is called the happiness advantage!
Recently, I stumbled upon the 21 Day Happiness Challenge on Twitter and I thought it was such an interesting idea. Logically we know that happiness is a choice. We are in control over our thoughts and reactions. However; we often lose that awareness when life throws us those unexpected curve-balls. Or, at least, I do! I’m a professional negative nancy on those less than stellar days! {Whenever I’m having one of those curve-ball days, all I want to do is crawl under the covers and eat the heck out of some double brownie chocolate chip ice cream. Annnd, maybe add some chocolate sprinkles for good measure 😉 }
The purpose of this challenge is quite simple: to regain and promote optimism and happiness by committing to doing the following five things each day for 21 days. The beauty is, these tasks are powerful enough to make a difference, yet not so difficult that it becomes daunting!
This challenge is hardly time-consuming, and can really change your way of thinking. I’m doing this because I want to change my mind-set. Who wants to join me? Let’s do this! Here’s 5 steps that YOU can take to get to happy!
Journal Three Specific Things That YOU Are Grateful For
Writing can be so cathartic and can really soothe the soul. By documenting 3 specific things that you are grateful for each day, you are re-wiring your brain to look for the positive – no matter what the situation! So grab a journal, a piece of paper, go on your computer, anything works, and start jotting.
Example: Today, I’m grateful for having a loving family to come home to every day, for being greeted with puppy kisses, and for having a Heavenly Father who forgives me, and never abandons me.
Record One Positive Experience Per Day
Similar to the exercise above, writing down one positive thought a day, trains your brain to find the good in your life. Think about it, have you ever found yourself dwelling on negative or extremely embarrassing events from the past? Of course you have! It’s the worst right?! Instead, focus on one positive memory per day. That will help your brain relieve that positive experience and cause the same feelings of happiness.
Example: my friend (for the purpose of this blog, we’ll call her Joy) and I used to enjoy going to view Nicholas Sparks movies together. We’d make a plan, she’d pick me up, and we would head to the movie. Looking back on those memories always makes me smile from ear to ear. You know those people who shine so bright even the sun gets jealous? That’s Joy! I loved (and still do) spending quality time with her, and was so blessed to have shared those little moments. She radiated positivity and happiness, and I always came home with a full heart.
Carry Out Random Acts of Kindness
This is by far my favorite task on the list! I love showing people kindness. It makes me happy and (hopefully) makes the other person happy as well! Create a Kindness Kit for someone, post a positive thought on your social media accounts, compliment someone, pay it forward. There are all different and creative ways to spread sunshine around. Don’t hesitate – just do it!
Example: One of my favorite things to do is to send out little messages and gifts to people – whether that’s in the form of text messages, cards, or even a writing. I love to make others smile, and I love the surprise element of it all!
Exercise
Okay, I’m not going to lie, this is probably my least favorite activity on the list. I’d rather curl up with a good book or tv show, and a cookie. BUT, I’ve begun to find out that exercising is such a powerful way to boost your mood. As it turns out, nothing can release endorphins quite like getting up and moving around!
Example: Do a different type every day, just to make it interesting, but be sure not to burn yourself out. Yoga, stretching, whatever your preference may be, take 10-20 minutes each day and treat yourself to feeling good!
Meditation
It is so easy to get caught up in the hustle and bustle of every day life. We’re constantly rushing around to accomplish tasks that we hardly have time to breathe sometimes. That’s not healthy and that certainly does not make us happy! By taking time each day to meditate will help to bring you back to the present, will allow you to focus, and give you the relaxation that you need and deserve!
Example: Take a moment or two and do something strictly for you. For me? That means reading my devotionals, listening to my Christian music, and praying. Getting back in touch with my faith is the only way I know how to bring myself peace, along with happiness.
Studies show that it takes approximately 21 days to form a new habit. Wouldn’t happiness and positive thinking be a great habit to start? For me, it will! And, I hope it will for you, too. So, what do you say? Hop on the bandwagon with me and challenge yourself for 21 days.
If you’d like to participate in the challenge, I’d love to hear from you! Feel free to leave a comment here, or on the contact page!
Honestly Allie 