Make Yourself Happier in the Next 30 Minutes

I enjoy it when I see people I like playing together, especially my imaginary friends from the Internet.  I found Gretchen Rubin from the Happiness Project guest blogging on Leo Babauta’s zenhabits.

I always look forward to reading Gretchen’s tips on getting happy and I feel calmer and more mindful just seeing the zenhabits pages without even having to read them (but i do, but i do).

The only thing that could make me happier is a list — I love lists and sure enough this is Gretchen’s tips for making yourself happier in the the next 30 minutes.  I tried these three and already feel great.

My Three

1. Boost your energy. Stand up and pace while you talk on the phone or, even better, take a brisk ten-minute walk outside. Research shows that when people move faster, their metabolism speeds up, and the activity and sunlight are good for your focus, your mood, and the retention of information. Plus, because of “emotional contagion,” if you act energetic, you’ll help the people around you feel energetic, too.

5. Rid yourself of a nagging task. Answer a difficult email, do an errand you’ve been putting off, or call to make that dentist’s appointment. Crossing an irksome chore off your to-do list will give you a big rush of energy and relief.

6. Create a calmer environment. Clear some physical and mental space around yourself by sorting papers, pitching junk, cleaning a closet, answering a few emails, filing, or even just making your piles neater. A large stack of little tasks can feel overwhelming, but often just a few minutes of work can make a sizeable dent. Try to get in the habit of using the “one minute rule” — i.e., never postpone any task that can be completed in less than one minute. And always make your bed in the morning!

Read all the tips:

Beat the Holiday or Financial Blues: 9 Tips for Making Yourself Happier in the Next 30 Minutes