Happiness is an option, however that does not imply it’s simple. When we’re stuck in a consistent loop of worry and negativeness, it can be difficult to cultivate a favorable frame of mind.
As leaders at the Institute for Global Happiness, we’re continuously considering the little, deliberate things we can all do to make our neighborhoods more favorable, content and resistant.
Often, it begins with how we speak with others, and to ourselves. If you utilize any of these 6 expressions every day, you’re really better than many:
1. “I get to…”
Reframing “have to’s…” into “get to’s…” is an effective method to use a frame of mind of appreciation.
Don’t miss out on: An 85-year Harvard study found the No. 1 thing that makes us happy in life: It helps us ‘live longer’
You don’t have to see someone about your back pain, for example. You get to. This is the benefit of living with the most advanced medicine available in human history.
And you don’t have to check in on the screaming toddler that you thought was asleep — you get to. You’ll miss the midnight hugs in a few years, so an extra one tonight might be good for the both of you.
2. “What was your rose?”
Studies have shown that gratitude can make us both happier and physically healthier. A great way to incorporate thankfulness in your life is the game “Rose, thorn, bud.”
A rose is any highlight, tiny win, or small pleasure from the day. “I finally found the keys to the shed,” “My principal emailed me a thank you,” “I got an assist at hockey practice.” A thorn is something that hurt or didn’t go well. And finally, a bud, or something you’re looking forward to.
It might be awkward at first, but we’ve found that it has become a force for positivity and connection.
3. “Tell me more…”
When someone starts opening up, many of us have a tendency to want to solve their problems or give them advice.
Instead, simply saying “Tell me more,” with its implicit offering of time and energy to listen, allows them to keep processing their feelings and thoughts, while also deepening your relationship and bringing you even closer
4. “… yet.”
We try to add this tiny phrase to any sentence that starts with “I can’t,” “I don’t,” or “I’m not.” Even if it’s just said mentally, the word helps pry open a door that our brain is trying to slam shut. It introduces the possibility that you could sometime in the future: “I’m not qualified for that job … yet.”
This is a good one to share with kids to teach them how to turn setbacks into learning opportunities: “I’m not a strong swimmer … yet,” or “I don’t like onions … yet.”
5. “Will this matter a year from now?”
It’s easy to zoom in on the worry of the moment and feel like there’s no way out.
Flares of anxiety happen to so many of us, even about little things like being 10 minutes late for a meeting, forgetting to pay a bill and getting slapped with some interest, or getting no reply on a text to a friend.
When you start to feel that stress, ask yourself: “Will this matter a year from now?” If the answer is no, try to pull that future calm back into the present moment.
6. “I will focus on…”
Do you have 17 texts, 243 unread emails, and three calendar notifications pinging for your attention?
Distraction and decision fatigue are often barriers to happiness. So reduce your options. Instead of pinging from one thing to the next, take a minute and write down one thing you will focus on, either at the beginning or end of the day tomorrow.
Achieving that one small goal is one achievable step you can take towards genuine happiness.
Neil Pasricha is a leading authority on intentional living. He is the New York Times best-selling author of 10 books and journals, including “The Happiness Equation” and “Two-Minute Mornings.” He hosts the award-winning podcast 3 Books, and has given keynote speeches at TED Talks and SXSW. Follow him on Twitter @NeilPasricha
Leslie Richardson is a neighborhood leader. She’s a mom of 4, urban primary unique education instructor, and runs neighborhood listening groups for mamas and teenagers. She has degrees in psychology and education and is a licensed parenting coach. Learn more at LeslieRichardson ca
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