Find a few keys to happiness

Published 3:00 am Saturday, May 26, 2018

Many people wait for happiness to find them, but being happy can be a choice. There are many techniques you can try to create a happier, more enjoyable life.

WHAT SCIENCE SAYS

“Research has shown you have control over your happiness,” explains Stacy Blackburn, D.O., Mayo Clinic Health System family physician. “It all relates back to your personality and also your thoughts and behaviors, which can be changed.”

Happy people seem to build their life choices around five pillars, Blackburn says:

• Appreciating what you have.

• Devoting time to friends and family.

• Feeling a sense of purpose.

• Living in the moment.

• Maintaining an optimistic outlook.

CHOOSE OPTIMISM

Optimism is one aspect of life over which you have complete control. Blackburn suggests combating negative thoughts by recognizing them and asking these questions:

• Is the situation really as bad as I think?

• Is there another way to look at the situation?

INVEST IN RELATIONSHIPS

Relationships are a key part of being happy. Make time for these relationships and give happiness in return. Communicating kind words and actions to the special people in your life and showing appreciation can help you become happier.