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Eights Steps Toward A More Satisfying LifeWant
to lift your level of happiness? Here are some practical suggestions
from University of California psychologist Sonja Lyubomirsky, based on
research findings by her and others. Satisfaction (at least a temporary
boost) guaranteed.
- Count Your Blessings. One way to do this
is with a 'gratitude journal' in which you write down three to five
things for which you are currently thankful - from the mundane (you
found a parking space close to your class) to the magnificent (a
child's first steps). Do this once a week, say, on Sunday night.
Keep it fresh by varying your entries as much as possible.
- Practice Acts of Kindness. These should be
both random (let that harried mom go ahead of you in the checkout
line) and systematic (bring Sunday supper to an elderly neighbor).
Being kind to others, whether friends or strangers, triggers a
cascade of positive effects - it makes you feel generous and
capable, gives you a greater sense of connection with others and
wins you smiles. Approval and reciprocated kindness - all happiness
boosters.
- Savor Life's Joys. Pay close attention to
momentary pleasures and wonders. Focus on the sweetness of a rips
strawberry or the warmth of the sun when you step from the shade.
Some psychologists suggest taking 'mental photographs' of
pleasurable moments to review in less happy times.
- Thank a Mentor. If there's someone whom
you owe a debt of gratitude for guiding you at one of life's
crossroads, don't wait to express your appreciation - in detail and,
if possible, in person.
- Learn to Forgive. Let go of anger and
resentment by writing a letter of forgiveness to a person who has
hurt you or wronged you. Inability to forgive is associated with
persistent rumination or dwelling on revenge, while forgiving allows
you to move on.
- Invest Time and Energy in Friends & Family.
Where you live, how much money you make, your job title and even
you health have surprisingly small effects on your satisfaction with
life. The biggest factor appears to be strong personal
relationships.
- Take Care of Your Body. Getting plenty of
sleep, exercising, stretching, smiling, and laughing can all enhance
your mood in the short term. Practiced regularly, they can help you
make your daily life more satisfying.
- Develop Strategies for Coping with Stress and
Hardships. There is no avoiding hard times. Religious faith has
been shown to help people cope, but so do the secular beliefs
enshrined in axioms like "This to shall pass" and That which doesn't
kill me makes me stronger." The trick is that you have to believe
them.
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Seven Ways to Get
A's
Improving Your Memory
Battling Math Anxiety
Motivation & Goal Setting
Notetaking Skills
How to Study in Groups
The Seven Step Anti-Procrastination Plan
Strategies for Success
How to Read Your
Textbook Effectively
How to Survive Exam Week
Tips
for Relaxation
Are you "Test Anxious?"
Test Taking Strategies
Taking Notes: The Importance of Good Lecture Notes
Time Management
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