Action for Happiness has created a simple 7-day Happiness Challenge based on four simple science-based actions that are proven to have a big impact on people's happiness and wellbeing. Why not give them a try?
For more information visit www.actionforhappiness.org
7-DAY HAPPINESS CHALLENGE
Simple science-based actions for a happier life
Can we change how happy we are?
Source: Lyubomirsky et al (2005)
Our thoughts & behaviours
Our happiness is affected by…
And research shows that we can
learn skills to be happier
GREAT DREAM: Ten Keys to Happier Living
Do things for others
Connect with people
Take care of your body
Notice the world around
Keep learning new things
Have goals to look forward to
Find ways to bounce back
Take a positive approach
Be comfortable with who you are
Be part of something bigger
Source: Action for Happiness (2011), building on nef (2008)
Challenge #1: Three Good Things
ACTION: Each day, write down Three Good Things that happened that day, including why those things were good.
WHY: We have a natural “negativity bias” so we’re very good at focusing on what’s wrong – or what might go wrong – and not so good at noticing and appreciating what has gone well.
WHEN: Once a day, towards the end of each day.
BENEFIT: People who do this for just one week have been shown to be significantly happier – and much less likely to be anxious or depressed – as much as six months later.
Challenge #2: Kindness Day
ACTION: On one day this week, do as many extra acts of kindness for others as possible (try to do at least 5)
WHY: Often we are so busy focusing on our own plans that we miss opportunities to do kind things to help others or take a moment to brighten up someone else’s day.
WHEN: Do as many as possible on one specific day this week.
BENEFIT: When we do things for others, it doesn’t just help them, it gives us a big boost too. Research shows that people who do more acts of kindness tend to be happier.
Challenge #3: Calm Your Mind
ACTION: Give your mind a breathing space for 10 mins each day. Follow the free ‘Take 10’ program at headspace.com
WHY: Our minds are constantly busy – with all sorts of thoughts, activities and worries – and this can be unhelpful. We rarely stop to tune in to what’s going on in our minds.
WHEN: 10 mins a day - preferably in the morning.
BENEFIT: Practicing mindfulness exercises has been shown to reduce anxiety, improve mood, increase concentration and bring benefits for our heart and immune system.
Challenge #4: Move Your Body
ACTION: Do something physically active (and enjoyable!) for at least 10 minutes - and ideally more - each day
WHY: We spend much of our lives either sitting (at our desk, on the sofa etc) or sleeping – and our busy lives mean that we often miss out on chances to stay physically active each day
WHEN: At least 10 mins a day - preferably something you enjoy!
BENEFIT: Staying active isn’t just good for our heart and our physical health, it also boosts our mood, improves our brain function and helps alleviate stress, anxiety and depression
CALM YOUR MIND
This Week: Do try this at home!