13 Ways I Help Myself Feel Happier Than Anyone Else I Know Part 8-13

13 Ways I Help Myself Feel Happier Than Anyone Else I Know

No one feels perfectly positive all the time, but I'm pretty close. Here's how I do it.

8. I say no.

This enables me to do more of what I want to do. Bachelorette party in Las Vegas? Sorry, I have other commitments. Baby shower in Long Island? Would love to but will be mailing my gift instead. Interested in running a marathon with a close friend? I’d rather smoke crack. Saying no gives me time and energy for the things that make me happy.

9. I focus on what I want.

If you do just one thing differently, switch up the words you use. Words matter and have a very important impact on our mood, our confidence, and how others perceive us. Instead of saying, “I don’t want this belly fat,” say, “I want to feel sexy in my new one-piece!” Instead of saying, “I don’t want to be late,” say, “I want to be relaxed and on time.” You get the idea. Always think and visualize what you want. The shift is remarkable.

10. I ask for what I want.

This is a superpower. Whether it's a better table at a restaurant or the rates for different freelance projects, asking for what I want ensures I feel assertive and free. Silencing your desires is like taking a weakening drug. Honor yourself by asking for what you want—and deserve.

11. I remind myself how far I have come.

If someone told me I would have the life that I have at 32 when I was 25, I would’ve been very happy. I am sure a lot of you would feel the same way about where you are in your life. I remind myself regularly that while I’ll always be working towards something new, I’m still doing well in the present moment.

12. I consume uplifting content every single day (no exceptions).

Self-help books, educational podcasts, inspirational blog posts—how does anyone live without this stuff?!? If I miss a single day I notice it. This helps me live in the present moment, seize my personal power, and not take things so personally. External inspiration also massively feeds internal inspiration.

13. I give myself permission to be happy.

One of my favorite books is Bronnie Ware’s international bestseller The Top Five Regrets of the Dying. Ware was a hospice nurse for several years and cared for patients in the last few weeks of their lives. According to her book, one of the most common deathbed regrets was, “I wish I let myself be happier.” Ware says, “Many did not realize until the end that happiness is a choice.”