When it comes to happiness, there are a few facts we just can’t ignore. And if we want to be happy, we have to know the facts so that we can increase our chances of being happy as often as possible. Let’s look at these five facts about happiness and see how knowing them can increase the happiness in our lives…
1. People In Committed Relationships Are 10% Happier Than Singles
Despite what comedians say, and all the jokes about the old ball and chain wife, or the couch potato of a husband, people who have found that special someone, and committed themselves to them, are 10% happier than people who are single. I haven’t come across too many people who have said they want to grow old by themselves. I’m sure there are a few who would be happier that way, but the majority of us want that special someone in our lives. The one who will be there through thick and thin with us.
Oh, and one more thing to mention…a good sex life equals happiness too!!!
2. Healthier People Are Happier
It’s tough to be happy when you’re suffering from some sort of ailment or are generally unhappy with your current health. Imagine you have an ailment that you have to battle every day. This doesn’t make it impossible to be happy, but it could make it tough. This is where mental toughness and happiness has to come into play. With strong mental health, you can overcome physical limitations that try to steal your happiness.
And if you’re in pretty good shape, you are generally happier. When you feel good, look good, and are doing the right things for a long life, how can you not be happy? Having daily exercise in your life will make you healthier, mentally stronger, and happier for the long run. Workouts release the endorphins that your brain needs to be happier. They can also give you a confidence that can’t help but make things in your life look up. And when things are looking up, we’re generally happier.
3. Good Sleepy Time
If you want to be happier, you have to get enough sleep. No, I’m not saying you need to get tons of sleep, but you do need enough. Too much sleep can just make you lazier and want more, so you have to avoid too much sleep. Too little of sleep will make you groggy, less patient, and un-focused, which surely will NOT make you happy. Find out the amount of sleep your body needs to have your best day and aim for that much sleep each night.
4. Get A Pet
Yes, the family pet can bring a lot of joy and happiness to your life, not to mention improve your physical health. People with pets generally have decreased blood pressure, lower cholesterol levels, and less anxiety. They say petting an animal just a few times a day can do wonders for your health and happiness.
5. Happiness Is A Choice
That’s right and I’ll say it again. Happiness is a choice. No, you can’t control everything that happens in your life, but you can choose to do the things that will bring you happiness. You can look for that perfect spouse, you can choose to be healthier, you can choose to get plenty of rest, and you can choose to get a pet. These are just a few ways you can choose to be happier. There are many more. Make the choice to be happy and do the things that make you happy.
The Takeaway
Like many things in life…if you want to figure something out, you have to know the facts. I provided five facts about happiness that can make a world of difference in your life. Last, but not least, in my list is that happiness is a choice. You have to make the choice to be happy and then do the work to be happy. Sure, it can be work to be happy sometimes, but that’s okay. You’re reading the 5and2Guy because you know it takes simple disciplines every day to be the person you want to be. And if you want to be happier, know the facts, and implement the little daily disciplines that will get you there.
When it comes to happiness, consider these five things because as Bill Murray’s character in Stripes said,
“That’s the fact, Jack!”