10 Rules to Be Happy In Life

Happiness is not a matter of fortune, but of practice, cultivated quietly over time. It grows not when your circumstances change, but when your habits do.

Here are 10 rules to adopt for a happy life.

1. BE grateful for what you have. Happiness begins with gratitude, with learning to treasure what you already possess rather than longing endlessly for what you lack.

2. FORGIVE quickly and let go. Happiness deepens when you forgive quickly and let old grievances go, refusing to let resentment take root in your heart.

3. DON’T overthink everything. Just as essential is the discipline of not overthinking every worry, but instead allowing your mind to rest rather than chasing each anxious thought to its end.

4. STAY connected with God. A steady connection to the divine offers an anchor through life’s uncertainties.

5. SMILE more often. A simple smile, offered freely and often, has the power to soften both your spirit and the spirits of those around you.

6. GIVE more than you take. True joy is found less in receiving than in giving; make it your habit to offer more than you take; and expect correspondingly little in return.

7. EXPECT less from others. Expecting less from others spares you needless disappointment.

8. LIVE simply and peacefully. Living simply, without excess or noise, clears away the clutter that so often clouds contentment.

9. FOCUS on what you can control. Direct your energy only toward what truly lies within your control, and release the rest without regret.

10. CHOOSE kindness over hate. Above all, in every circumstance you meet, let kindness be your first and final choice.

– transcript from Book Therapy