Happiness habits: 8 daily practices of joyful people

We’ve all met them—the people who seem to radiate happiness, no matter the circumstances. Their joy feels effortless, almost as if they’ve unlocked a secret to life that the rest of us are still trying to figure out.

Is it luck? A naturally sunny disposition? Or is it something more intentional?

The truth is, happiness isn’t a random stroke of fortune. It’s cultivated through daily habits and deliberate choices. Or as the Dalai Lama said, “Happiness is not something ready-made. It comes from your own actions.”

Today, we explore the 8 daily practices that joyful people embrace to bring more happiness into their lives.

Ready to create your own path to joy?

Let’s get started.

1) Starting the day with gratitude

We often get so caught up in the hustle and bustle of life that we forget to appreciate the little things. But joyful people? They make it a habit to start their day with gratitude.

The practice of gratitude isn’t just about saying “thank you”. It’s a deeper recognition and appreciation of the good in life. Cultivating this habit doesn’t only foster positivity, but also helps combat stress and negativity.

Just think about it. When you wake up and the first thing you do is ponder on something that you’re grateful for, you set a positive tone for the rest of your day.

And here’s a sweet bonus: this simple act doesn’t take more than a few minutes of your time. Yet, the impact it can have on your happiness  can be profound.

So, why not give it a try? Start your day with an attitude of gratitude, and watch as it works wonders for your mood and overall outlook on life.

And remember, it’s a practice. The more you do it, the more natural it becomes.

2) Embracing the outdoors

This may sound simple, but it’s a habit that has transformed my life. As someone who used to be glued to my desk, I never really valued the power of nature.

That was until I started incorporating a daily walk in my routine. It didn’t happen overnight, but slowly I began to notice a shift in my mood. The chirping birds, the rustling leaves, the fresh air – they all had a calming effect on me.

The time I spent outdoors became a sacred space for me. A space to think, to breathe, to simply be. And the best part? It cost me nothing but a few minutes of my day.

Scientifically too, spending time in nature has been linked to good health and wellbeing. So it’s not just me saying it!

Now, no matter how busy I am, I make it a point to step outside and enjoy Mother Nature’s company. It’s a habit that has added so much joy to my everyday life.

Give it a shot. You might be surprised at the difference it makes.

3) Regular physical activity

Physical movement isn’t just about keeping your body in shape. It’s also about maintaining a happy mind.

Regular exercise releases endorphins, often referred to as ‘feel-good’ hormones. These endorphins interact with receptors in the brain that reduce the perception of pain and trigger a positive feeling.

Whether it’s hitting the gym, going for a run, practicing yoga, or even dancing around the house, joyful people make it a point to keep their bodies moving. And no, you don’t have to train like an athlete. Even just 30 minutes of moderate exercise can do wonders for your mood.

Next time you’re feeling down or stressed, instead of reaching for those comfort foods, why not get up and move?

A little exercise might be just what you need to lift your spirits.

4) Cultivating mindfulness

In our fast-paced world, it’s easy to get caught up in the rush of life and forget to live in the present. But joyful people have a secret weapon – mindfulness.

Mindfulness is all about being aware of your thoughts, feelings, and surroundings in the present moment. It’s about fully engaging with life as it unfolds, without getting lost in the past or worrying about the future.

Practicing mindfulness can come in many forms, like meditation, yoga, or simply taking a few moments to breathe deeply and focus on your senses. It’s about finding what works for you and then incorporating it into your daily routine.

Mindfulness not only calms the mind but also helps you appreciate life more. After all, true joy lies in savoring the present moment, don’t you think?

5) Acts of kindness

Sometimes, the key to our own happiness lies in making others happy.

Joyful people know the power of generosity. They understand that even small acts of kindness can make a big difference.

Whether it’s a warm smile, a heartfelt compliment, or helping someone in need, these acts of kindness don’t just bring joy to others, but also to the one who performs them.

You see, when you do something good for others, it triggers a sense of fulfillment and satisfaction within you.

6) Prioritizing self-care

This is a big one.

There was a time when I used to put everyone else’s needs before my own. I thought that was the noble thing to do, the selfless thing.

But all it left me with was burnout and a sense of resentment.

Eventually, I realized that in order to care for others, I first needed to care for myself. It wasn’t easy, but I began carving out time in my daily routine for self-care.

It was as simple as reading a book, soaking in a bath, or just sitting quietly with a cup of tea.

And you know what? It made a massive difference. I found myself happier, more relaxed, and better equipped to handle life’s ups and downs.

Self-care isn’t selfish. It’s essential. And joyful people understand this. They prioritize their well-being because they know they can’t pour from an empty cup.

Remember to take care of yourself. It’s not just about pampering, it’s about preserving your happiness.

7) Maintaining strong relationships

We are social creatures. We thrive on connection, and meaningful relationships are a crucial part of our happiness.

Happy people understand this. They prioritize their relationships and invest time and energy into nurturing them. They know that having a strong support system not only provides comfort in times of need, but also amplifies their moments of joy.

Whether it’s family, friends, or a significant other, maintaining strong relationships is about more than just spending time together. It’s about being there for each other, showing empathy, and truly listening when the other person talks.

8) Embracing imperfections

This might be the most important habit of all.

Truly content people understand that life isn’t perfect, and nor are they. They embrace their imperfections and see them not as flaws, but as unique facets of their personality.

They know that mistakes and failures are part of the human experience. Instead of dwelling on them, they learn from them and use them as stepping stones to growth.

Don’t be too hard on yourself. You’re a work in progress, and that’s okay. Embrace your imperfections, because they make you, you. And that’s something to be joyful about.

Final thoughts: It’s all about intentionality

At the heart of all these habits, there lies a common thread – intentionality. Whether it’s starting the day with gratitude, embracing the outdoors, or practicing kindness, each of these habits involves making intentional choices.

Joyful people don’t stumble upon happiness by accident. They cultivate it. They understand that happiness isn’t just about how life treats them, but how they choose to live their life.

Each day offers countless opportunities for joy. It’s in the smile of a stranger, the aroma of a freshly brewed coffee, the laughter of a loved one. It’s about noticing these moments and cherishing them.

So as you navigate your happiness journey, ask yourself this: What choices are you making today to cultivate joy in your life?