Ten Habits of Happy Women

Here are some habits of happy women that when put in place have big impacts.

1. DON’T SAY YES WHEN YOU MEAN NO

This bad habit is a joy-killer. If you prefer a cosy night on the sofa rather than drinks with a friend, stay home. Take control and don’t commit to things that you don’t want or realistically have time to do. Also avoid agreeing to things a long way off (that you really don’t want to do) – they have a habit of creeping up before you know it.

2. BE GENEROUS WITH COMPLIMENTS

If you’ve ever received a random compliment—especially if it’s from a woman you don’t know—you’re aware of how game-changing it can be for your day. Don’t be shy—if you admire someone’s jacket or smile, don’t be afraid to say so. You’ll probably make their day.

3. LET GO OF GRUDGES

Resentment hurts the person who resents more than it does the recipient of their resentment. If you’re holding on to negative feelings about someone, those feelings are really just making you feel bad. Whether you forgive the offending individual to their face or just internally doesn’t really matter so long as you let it go one way or the other.

4. PRACTICE RANDOM ACTS OF KINDNESS

Be nice, it’s highly underrated. Random acts of kindness usually have a more positive affect on the giver than the receiver. So next time you’re at the supermarket, help an elderly person by taking their shopping to their car. If you see litter on the beach, pick it up and find the nearest bin or surprise a loved one with breakfast in bed.

5. TAKE ACTION

Stop saying you want to be a painter, writer, interior designer – just do it. Take a course or set aside just one hour a week to work on your aspiration. Whether it becomes a career change or a fulfilling weekend hobby the key to focus on is that you’re doing it.

6. KEEP A GRATITUDE LIST

This is a real life-changer. We all have bad days and sometimes think we have nothing to be thankful for. On those days keep it simple – food and shelter are more than many have. Reframe and experience one of the most effective mood changers around.

7. PRIORITISE SELF-CARE

Happy people know that the most important thing in life is their health— physical, mental and emotional. So, they invest and prioritise resources (time, money) in a way that allows them to get the services, treatments or appointments they need. Even if you are low on cash, you can afford a hot bath and a home face mask. If time is the roadblock, diarise an hour each week to do something for just for you.

8. HAVE A HEALTHY RELATIONSHIP WITH MONEY

Understand how to value yourself and your financial security. Instead of letting your bank accounts dictate your self-esteem, they let your self-esteem dictate your bank accounts. When money is low, they don’t stress—instead, utilize your talents, connections and creative thinking to increase your cash flow. By just taking action, no matter no small you’ll experience a sense of control and make a positive impact on your financial situation.

9. DON’T CARE ABOUT BEING LIKED

We all care about the opinions of others, but the happiest people care the least. Be authentic and true to yourself and understand that not everyone will like you, but that’s ok. The main thing is you like yourself. Being inauthentic and trying to please everyone will just erode your confidence and emotional happiness over time.

10. ASK YOURSELF FOR ADVICE

Asking everyone what they think about your current relationship or job or any other life circumstance can only lead to unhappiness. There’s a reason you feel defensive when people give advice, and that’s because you don’t need it. You have the answers for your own life, and if you’re feeling lost it’s because you’re not listening to that inner voice. Other people’s opinions also come with their own agendas and interpretations of your situation, which they can’t really know. Trust yourself.