I think we probably have some similar threads running but I was hoping we could discuss specific ways of boosting happiness. If we have covered it before then no harm in a refresher.
We have skirted around the issue in some of the serious threads so I thought I would call a few things out.
What helps me:
1. Reduce your media intake.
If you want to read about something important, try going to the primary research or the scientific paper. Failing that, consult someone you trust - there are a few people on the forum who will help you either on threads or by PM.
2. Turn off devices.
Try to avoid screen time for specific times during the day.
3. Avoid those who are always intent on conflict.
Robust discussion is useful but continual conflict is wearing. Ensure you have time to relax.
What a great idea for a thread AO.
I’ve attached a video by Professor Dolan who studies happiness. Some of it seems obvious but it’s an interesting watch.
There’s also a great podcast that BBC Bristol did a while ago, I’ll dig it out if anyone’s interested.
https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=b3hRqwbiqpA/URL]
A half an hour, or more, walk every day in nature to digest the day.Forrest bathing.
Completely agree with this point - cut out all negative things and peopleOriginally Posted by AlphaOmega
From a personal point of view (and I accept this is probably very personal), I'm happy when I streamline day-to-day tasks to know it frees up as much time as possible
Before getting sucked in to a futile argument on the web (did anyone ever change their opinion as a result of a web exchange of views (I won't say discussion)) I remember this and walk away stress free and time richer:
I would second the suggestion of walking in green spaces. It's helped me immensely this year.
^Very true.
Leave an extra 15 mins for each longer car journey. It makes traffic jams and hold-ups easier to deal with.
Have a bottle of water in the car along with a snack. If you encounter a 10-mile tailback, you'll be more patient with friends and family if you return hydrated.
Thirded.
I'd also suggest.
- Don't watch the news every day, it's just so depressing at the moment.
- Read a good book or a series of books.
- Plant something indoors or out. "Grow something good," as a friend of mine has it. I have some chillies starting off.
- Have a lovely cup of coffee or tea.
- Clean / tidy one room a day.
- Reorganise your cupboards and de-clutter.
- Feed the birds. Then watch the birds.
- Learn a foreign language - leer een andere taal :)
All of those are stress reducing.
Coke and hookers.
Set yourself a goal - something you've always wanted to do, but never got around to.
For me during Lockdown One, it was to write a publish a book. I did that and am delighted I did.
I'm now three quarters the way through writing another...
I also concur with the above suggestions - having a good clear out is something I always rate.
So clever my foot fell off.
In that order? I heard the former can affect performance with the latter. Allegedly
Equally, though, you may have wet yourself.
Thereby also increasing their happiness.
Stopped watching / reading the news.
Significantly reduced social media / internet and taken to book reading instead.
Its worked for me.
If you want to do something then allow yourself not only the time to do it but also the time to do it well and to your own personal satisfaction. One thing done well is better than a dozen half arsed attempts.
Take pride in getting something just right.
I think it was a comedian who talked about this. His technique when confronted with someone with strongly opposed views intent on an argument was just to agree with them. You waste no time leaving more time for more important things and it flummoxes the other person which is a nice side-effect as they weren't expecting such an easy time.
"you know what, you're right. Hitler wasn't such a bad chap after all. Byyyyyeeeee"
"But, but but"
You're long gone and enjoying a nice cuppa.
Finish the bottle of water and therefore have a handy receptacle to wazz into.
Inline with what others have said I've found reducing news and social media content to be the biggest help.
Last edited by subseastu; 28th September 2021 at 15:48.
"Once is happenstance. Twice is coincidence. The third time it's enemy action."
'Populism, the last refuge of a Tory scoundrel'.
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“Don’t look back, you’re not heading that way.”
Guacamole
Don't just do something, sit there. - TNH
G.O.D; the Great Out-Doors. Taking time to appreciate it too.
This, we live on the edge of the Forest of Dean, when I say on the edge, I mean we walk out of the gate and literally into the forest, walk every day no matter what the weather is like, you simply cannot beat it.
If you're having a stressful day, can't quite solve something, been irritated by whatever, that walk will take your mind of it and even give you inspiration to solve whatever is niggling you, and on the plus side it will also improve your health, physical and mental.
The wildlife is awesome as well, buzzards, red kite, deer, wild boar, sparrow hawks etc.
I enjoy walking the dogs at least three times a day down by a local farm and also a bit of DIY, especially out doors.
Be a giver and surround yourselves with other givers. Cut out takers from your life.
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Exercise always has a positive impact on my mood
Is that a sexual thing?
Some diesel would do it right now.
Crush your enemies… see them driven before you… and hear the lamentations of their women.
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Lemon party, everyone's a giver.
Walk often, even in the bad weather. Consider what is important in life; don't buy that vanity plate, instead give the money to charity. One that I have really tried to live by recently is say no less, say yes more. The latter is especially important in relationships. Be nice to someone who has not had your good fortune.
I like to fix things in my garage, with coffee, and music.To this end i have equipped with a coffee machine, fridge, bose,carpet and comfy buffets.
^I find that very good advice.
I am trying to say yes more.
I hate presenting but I forced myself to volunteer the other day. I had been listening to Marcus Aurelius, so it's his fault really.
Short term, it will decrease my happiness while I prepare the presentation. But long term, it's better for my overall happiness.
Don't forget that once he had crushed the wizard, it wasn't quite enough for Arnie. His real happiness lay in political discourse. Well, sort of. I think he also quoted Browning:
A man's reach should exceed his grasp.
Running is my reset and boy I feel good.
Pitch
As Sherlock said to Watson when they looked at the body with the fruit gaping from the victim's anus, "Lemon entry my dear Watson."
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I also find six wanks a day helps.
So, are you a giver, or a taker?
[*]Learn a foreign language - leer een andere taal :)
Ik ben trots op je, want Nederlands is echt moeilijk!
GQ
Stop comparing myself with others in aspects of life such as careers, cars, wealth etc. Instead compare myself to myself regarding self improvement.
I changed roles a few years ago and learning everyday rather than feel stuck in a rut. The salary is the same but I am much happier.
Focusing less on outcomes and more on effort.
If I've tried hard and failed then that's better sometimes than not really bothering yet still being successful.
It'll come as no surprise but for me I really find exercise / sports or just activities bring me happiness. I used to meet up with a friend in the park over the summer and we played frisbee and badminton for hours on end. It's what I did when I was young and the enjoyment is still the same (as are the finger injuries from catching the frisbee awkwardly)
Having read all the replies I think the key to happiness is simply
A dog
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