Look, everyone wants to be happy. But sometimes, we’re our own worst enemies. Without even realizing it, we get stuck in some crazy habits that are sabotaging our joy. Let’s take a look at these happiness killers and learn how to kick them to the curb.
1. Nix the negative self-talk
Here’s a good rule: If you wouldn’t say it to a friend, don’t say it to yourself. Are you constantly putting yourself down or focusing on your flaws? Try to catch yourself when you’re being overly harsh and reframe your thoughts more positively. For example, instead of “I’m so stupid for making that mistake,” try “I’m human, and mistakes help me learn and grow.” It takes practice, but it’s so worth it.
2. Forgo holding grudges
That grudge you’re nursing? It’s taking up valuable real estate in your mind. No, this doesn’t mean you have to be best friends with someone who kind of sucks, but it does mean releasing anger and resentment. Try writing a letter (that you don’t send) expressing your feelings, then symbolically burning it. Choosing to free yourself from those crappy emotions is better than letting them eat you from the inside out.
3. Don’t stay in your comfort zone
Comfort zones are great…if you want to stay stagnant. The thing about growth and fulfillment? Well, they lie just outside of your comfort zone. That’s why you need to challenge yourself regularly. It doesn’t have to be something extreme like skydiving, it could be as small as speaking up in a meeting, trying a new hobby, or striking up a conversation with a stranger. Each time you step out of your comfort zone, you expand it, and that leads to new possibilities for happiness.
4. No more mindless scrolling
Swiping on social is a dangerous game. Before you know it, hours have passed, and you’re left feeling unproductive and dissatisfied. It’s time to set boundaries for your online time. Try designating specific times for checking social media, or use app blockers to limit your access. Replace some of that scrolling time with activities that actually fulfill you, like reading, creating, or connecting face-to-face with friends.
5. Don’t forget your finances
Money worries can be a huge source of stress and unhappiness and ignoring your financial situation won’t make it better. Take control by creating a budget, setting financial goals, and educating yourself about personal finance. Even small steps like tracking your spending or setting up automatic savings can relieve some financial stress and make you feel more in control (and happy).
6. Stop comparing yourself to others
You scroll through perfectly curated Instagram feeds and wonder why your life doesn’t look like that. Remember, you’re seeing everyone’s highlight reel, not their behind-the-scenes struggles. Next time you catch yourself comparing, try this: list three things you’re grateful for in your own life. Focus on your own journey instead of measuring yourself against others.
7. Don’t dwell on the past
It’s called the past for a reason—it’s behind you. Sure, it’s important to learn from past experiences, but constantly reliving old mistakes or “what ifs” will keep you stuck. When you catch yourself ruminating, try to acknowledge the thought, then consciously redirect your attention to the present moment. What can you see, hear, or feel right now?
8. Put an end to neglecting self-care
We’re sure you’ve heard it a million times, but you can’t pour from an empty cup. If you’re constantly putting everyone else’s needs before your own, you’re headed for burnout. Make time for activities that recharge you, whether it’s reading a book, taking a bubble bath, or going for a run. Schedule it in your calendar if you have to, trust us—you’ll be way happier.
9. Enough with the procrastination
Putting things off might feel good in the moment, but it leads to stress and anxiety down the line. That project you’ve been avoiding? It’s not going away, and the longer you wait, the more daunting it becomes. Break tasks into smaller, manageable chunks and tackle them one at a time. You might find that getting started was the hardest part and future you will thank you for it.
10. Stop putting your physical health on the back burner
According to WebMD, your physical and mental health are closely linked. Neglecting exercise, sleep, or nutrition can have a big impact on your mood. Start with small, consistent habits like taking a 10-minute walk each day, going to bed 15 minutes earlier, or adding an extra serving of vegetables to your meals. These small changes can add up to significant improvements in your overall well-being.
11. Stop running away from difficult conversations
Sweeping issues under the rug might seem easier in the short term, but it leads to bigger problems down the line. Those unaddressed issues have a way of festering and creating resentment. The solve? Learn to address conflicts and have those tough conversations. According to Psychology Today, start with “I” statements to express your feelings without blaming. It’s uncomfortable, but it leads to healthier relationships and less stress in the long run.
12. Leave overcommitting behind
Saying yes to everything can leave you spread extremely thin. Before you commit to something, ask yourself: Does this align with my priorities? Do I have the time and energy for this? It’s okay to be selective about your commitments. Quality over quantity applies to your time and energy too.
13. Stop striving for perfectionism
Perfectionism can be paralyzing. Are you putting off starting a project because you’re afraid it won’t be perfect? Remember, done is better than perfect, and being imperfect is part of being human. Try setting a time limit for tasks to avoid overpolishing.
14. No more neglecting gratitude
It’s easy to focus on what’s going wrong, but actively practicing gratitude can significantly boost your happiness. Try keeping a gratitude journal or sharing three things you’re grateful for with a friend or family member each day. This simple practice can shift your focus from what you lack to the abundance already present in your life.
15. Don’t run away from change
Change can be scary, but avoiding it altogether can keep you in a rut. Embrace new experiences and challenges—try a new food, take a different route to work, or learn a new skill. These small tweaks can lead to bigger ones and open up new opportunities for happiness and growth.
