10 Simple Habits of Happy People

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Here are ten simple habits of happy people that you too can build. These habits will help you think positively, feel less stressed, and ultimately be happier.

Habits of Happy People

Habits of Happy People

1. They feel and show gratitude

Happy people are always grateful for the things they have. They focus on these things far more than the things they don’t have. This stops them from looking enviously at other people and comparing their lives to others.

A great way to rewire your mind to focus on things you have is by starting a gratitude journal. Buy a journal, and every morning, write down 10 things you are grateful for that day. This will help you focus on the positives in your life.

2. They pick their friends wisely

There’s a saying that states you are the average of the 5 people you surround yourself with. Happy people pick their friends well.

Surround yourself with positive and happy friends, and you’ll have a better outlook on life. If people in your life cause drama, don’t spend as much time with them.

3. They don’t let envy into their lives

Be happy for other people’s successes. Learn from them. Don’t envy them. You only see their success as the tip of the iceberg and don’t see the years of work they likely put in. Be happy their work is rewarded and work harder for your own success.

4. They enjoy the moment

Strive to build a better future but enjoy the moment and the journey. When anything good happens, stop for a minute and savor the success, no matter how small.

It’s much easier to enjoy happiness in the moment, without expectation. Happiness is the journey, not the destination.

5. They love deeply

Loving deeply is a top habit of happy people. Love your family. Love your partner. Love your friends. Love your community.

And always try to show it in ways that resonate with your loved ones. Giving love returns love and happiness back.

6. They take care of themselves

Don’t forget to take the time to appreciate and take care of yourself. There are many ways to improve your health and wellbeing.

Make sure you sleep well. Reward yourself for the work you put in to reach goals. Eat healthy food, but don’t be afraid to treat yourself, as life is a balance. And always talk about how you feel, don’t bottle it up.

Related Content: Self Care Ideas That Will Make You Happy

7. They have a solution-oriented mindset

There will always be challenges in life. But when faced with a problem, don’t despair. Instead, approach it with an open mind, and look for creative solutions.

Sometimes, a problem might even turn into a big opportunity. Most successful companies were started because the founders wanted to solve a problem for their target audience.

If you face a problem in your business, know that many other business owners likely face it, and they will probably be willing to pay quite a bit of money for a solution.

8. They know their priorities

Most of the time, you can’t have it all. Sacrifices need to be made. If you know your priorities, you can choose wisely and choose what makes you happy.

Someone else’s idea of happiness may not necessarily be yours. Ask yourself what brings you most joy in life, and make the most time for it in your day.

9. They spend money on the things that matter

Do you know many materialistic people who are actually happy? Probably not. When you spend money on materialistic things hoping it will make you happy, it might for a very short while. But it won’t last, and you’ll just want more.

Instead, spend money on things that will enrich your life in the long run. Decide what those things are for you. For many, spending money on experiences such as travel or personal development will be most effective.

10. They exercise

In the words of the almighty Elle Woods (Legally Blonde) when defending her wrongfully-accused client:

“Exercise gives you endorphins. Endorphins make you happy. Happy people just don’t shoot their husbands.” 

Despite the joke, Elle is absolutely right. Just thirty minutes a day is enough to make a big difference in your life.

Exercise doesn’t have to be in a gym with gear on, either. Even dancing around your room is good exercise.


Change doesn’t happen overnight, so be patient. But if you can build many of the habits above over time, you’ll be well on your way to a healthier and happier life.

Start small, with just one habit, and strive for small changes and positive thoughts every day. Happiness is a state of mind: we just have to choose to be happy.


Get inspired to become a happier person, and keep these habits for when you’re having a bad day by saving this article to one of your self-improvement Pinterest boards.

10 Amazing Habits of Happy People - Ordinary and Happy