Nifty Fifty Fridays

50 Ways to be Happy

Being a fundraiser or a nonprofit leader is hard.  We hear ‘NO’ an awful lot, and sometimes it feels like the weight of the world is on our shoulders.  That’s why self-care is so important.  Here are 50 things (some small, some not so small) you can do to bring a little more happiness to your life.  And I'll add a 51st -- find a community of people that share your values!  I've got a feeling the community at the Nonprofit Storytelling Conference shares your values 😀.

1. Practice mindfulness: This can help you to live in the present moment and reduce anxiety and stress.

2. Connect with nature: Spend time outdoors, enjoy a walk in the park or a day at the beach.

3. Maintain a healthy lifestyle: Good physical health can contribute to mental happiness.

4. Help others: Acts of kindness and charity can bring about feelings of fulfillment and joy.

5. Express gratitude: Try to notice and appreciate the good things in your life.

6. Foster relationships: Spending quality time with friends and family can boost happiness.

7. Pursue a hobby: Engage in activities that you enjoy and are passionate about.

8. Meditate: It can help in calming the mind and reducing stress.

9. Stay organized: This can give a sense of control and reduce anxiety.

10. Smile: Even if you don't feel like it, the physical act of smiling can boost your mood.

11. Avoid negative people: Surround yourself with positive individuals.

12. Set achievable goals: Progress towards these goals can bring satisfaction and happiness.

13. Prioritize sleep: Lack of sleep can affect your mood and energy levels.

14. Learn something new: Learning can bring a sense of achievement.

15. Practice forgiveness: Holding onto grudges can lead to feelings of unhappiness.

16. Listen to uplifting music: Music can significantly influence our mood.

17. Stay hydrated: Dehydration can affect brain function, potentially leading to mood swings.

18. Limit screen time: Excessive use of digital devices can lead to stress and anxiety.

19. Journal: Writing down thoughts and feelings can help process emotions.

20. Get regular exercise: Physical activity releases endorphins, known as 'happy hormones'.

21. Eat healthily: A balanced diet can improve your physical health and mood.

22. Declutter your space: A clean and organized environment can promote peace of mind.

23. Volunteer: It can be very rewarding to help others.

24. Practice self-care: Take time to relax and treat yourself.

25. Focus on the positives: Try to maintain a positive outlook on life.

26. Visit places you love: Travelling to places you enjoy can make you happy.

27. Read a good book: Reading can provide an escape from reality.

28. Spend time with pets: The companionship of a pet can boost happiness.

29. Engage in creative activities: Activities like painting, writing, or dancing can be therapeutic.

30. Disconnect from work: Make sure to have time away from work to relax.

31. Enjoy silence: Taking quiet moments for yourself can be restorative.

32. Avoid overcommitting: Don't stress yourself out by taking on more than you can handle.

33. Laugh: Watch a comedy or spend time with funny friends.

34. Have a routine: A regular routine can provide structure and reduce anxiety.

35. Be patient with yourself: Don't put too much pressure on yourself.

36. Limit news consumption: Constant exposure to news can lead to anxiety.

37. Create a comforting environment: Make your living space a place you enjoy spending time in.

38. Use positive affirmations: Reinforce positive thinking with self-affirmations.

39. Nurture your spiritual side: Whether it's through religion or mindfulness, this can provide a sense of peace.

40. Enjoy the sun: Exposure to sunlight can increase serotonin levels, known as the 'happy hormone'.

41. Maintain good posture: It can boost self-esteem and mood.

42. Keep learning: Life-long learning can provide a sense of achievement and fulfillment.

43. Don't compare yourself to others: Everyone has their own journey.

44. Be genuine: Stay true to yourself.

45. Cook your favorite meal: The process and the meal itself can bring happiness.

46. Practice deep breathing: It can help reduce stress and promote relaxation.

47. Celebrate small wins: Recognize and celebrate your achievements, no matter how small.

48. Dance: It's a fun way to boost your mood and get some exercise.

49. Spend time alone: It's important to enjoy your own company.

50. Practice acceptance: Accept yourself and others as they are. Understanding that everyone has flaws can help improve happiness.