“Very little is needed to make a happy life; it is all within yourself, in your way of thinking.” – Marcus Aurelius

Your passions, life experiences, and even your personality all contribute to your happiness. You may find happiness in your career, or in your relationships – or both.

But no matter what makes you happy, there are certain time-proven essentials that really work. These essentials will bring more joy and peace and of course, happiness, into your life.

Notice What’s Right
Take all the problems, obstacles and disappointment life throws at you and reframe it with what’s right about the situation. At the end of the day, you will more content, at peace and happy. Take the time to begin to notice what’s right and see the world change in front of your eyes.

Be Grateful
How many times do you say the words “thank you,” in a day? How many times do you hear these same words? If you are doing the first thing, saying the “thank yous,” the latter will naturally happen. Learn to be grateful and you will be open to receive an abundance of joy and happiness.

Remember the Kid You Were
Do you remember how to play? I’m not referring to playing a round of golf or a set of tennis. I’m talking about playing like you did when you were a child – a game of tag; leap frog, or street baseball when the bat is a broken broom handle and the bases are the parked cars. One way to find or maintain your happiness is to remember the kid you were and play!

Be Kind
There’s no question that by merely watching acts of kindness creates a significant elevation in your mood and increases the desire to perform good deeds as well. Kindness is indeed contagious and when you make a commitment to be kind to you, and to others, you can experience new heights of joy, happiness and enthusiasm.

Spend Time with Your Friends
Although an abundant social and romantic life does not itself guarantee joy, it does have a huge impact on your happiness. Learn to spend time with your friends and make the friendships a priority in your life.

Savor Every Moment
To be in the moment is to live in the moment. Too often we are thinking ahead or looking ahead to the next event or circumstance in our lives, not appreciating the “here and now.” But when you savor every moment, you are savoring the happiness in your life.

Move!
The expression a “runner’s high” does not infer an addiction, but a feeling or a state of mind – a state of euphoria. There is no question exercise, or any physical exertion, elevates your mood and enhances a more positive attitude as well as fosters better personal self-esteem and confidence. Indeed, one way to increase your happiness is to move!

Finding Your Calling
Some find meaning in religion or spirituality while others find purpose in their work or relationships. Finding your calling may be much more than accomplishing one simple strategy for increasing your happiness, but having a sense of purpose – of feeling like you are here for a reason – can perhaps bring the greatest joy of all.

Don’t Overdo It
Know when to say when. What gives you joy and happiness the first time may not work the second time. Too much of a good thing may begin not to feel as good if the “thing” becomes more of a routine, or an expectation. Set healthy and reasonable boundaries for yourself and don’t overdo it.

About Alex Blackwell
Alex Blackwell is a father, husband and writer.