There’s a clear distinction between being just busy and being genuinely happy.

This difference boils down to what we do when we’re not at work. Happy people tend to engage in certain activities that boost their mood and life satisfaction.

I’ve noticed, during my life, that the happiest people I know have certain habits they do outside of their 9-to-5 grind. And it’s not always about grand adventures or extravagant hobbies.

Sometimes, it’s the small, everyday things that make the biggest difference. Let me share with you some of these habits that can inspire you to live a happier life.

Here are nine things that happy people do when they’re not at work.

1) They practice mindfulness

One of the most common habits among contented people is practicing mindfulness.

Mindfulness, a term widely used in the realm of psychology, essentially means paying attention, on purpose, to the present moment. It’s about being fully engaged in what you’re currently doing, rather than letting your mind wander off to the past or future.

You see, happy people understand that life isn’t just about chasing one goal after another. It’s about savoring the journey along the way.

When they’re not at work, they make time for activities that allow them to be present and enjoy the moment. This can be anything from meditating, taking a slow walk in nature or simply enjoying a cup of coffee without any distractions.

If you’re looking to boost your happiness outside of work hours, consider incorporating mindfulness into your routine.

It’s not about doing something grandiose; it’s about appreciating the small moments in life.

2) They nurture their relationships

Now, this point holds a special place in my heart.

One thing I’ve noticed about the happiest people I know is that they genuinely care about their relationships. They understand that maintaining strong connections with loved ones is not just beneficial, but absolutely vital for their well-being.

I remember one of my friends, who is one of the most cheerful persons I’ve ever met. She would always make sure she had time for her family and friends, regardless of how busy she was. She had a knack for making everyone around her feel special and valued.

Taking a page from her book, I started doing the same. I began prioritizing my relationships more, spending quality time with my family and friends whenever I could. And let me tell you, it made a huge difference in my happiness levels.

If you’re wondering what to do when you’re not at work, consider investing time in your relationships. Trust me, it’s worth every second.

3) They engage in physical activity

Happy people often have a secret weapon for boosting their mood – physical activity. Whether it’s going for a jog, playing a sport or even just taking a brisk walk, staying active is a common trait among joyful individuals.

It’s no coincidence either. Physical activity stimulates the production of endorphins, chemicals in the brain that act as natural mood lifters. In fact, studies have shown that regular exercise can be as effective as antidepressant medication in treating moderate to severe depression.

When they’re not at work, happy people often make time to move their bodies.

Not only does it keep them fit and healthy, but it also plays a significant role in their overall happiness and well-being.

4) They prioritize self-care

One thing that happy people do when they’re not at work is to prioritize self-care.

Self-care is about taking time out to look after your own physical, mental, and emotional health. It’s about acknowledging your needs and taking steps to meet them.

This could be anything from having a relaxing bath, reading a good book, or even simply ensuring you get a good night’s sleep. Happy people understand the importance of replenishing their energy and taking care of themselves.

When you’re off the clock, don’t forget to check in with yourself and see what you need.

Self-care isn’t selfish. It’s an essential part of living a balanced and happy life.

5) They pursue a hobby

Another thing happy people do when they’re not at work is to engage in hobbies they love.

Having a hobby gives you something to look forward to, it provides an outlet for creativity and can even offer a sense of achievement. Whether it’s gardening, painting, cooking, or playing an instrument, hobbies allow people to step away from their daily routines and immerse themselves in activities they truly enjoy.

If you’re looking for a way to enhance your happiness outside of work hours, consider picking up a hobby.

It doesn’t have to be anything big or time-consuming.

Even a few minutes spent on something you love can make a significant difference in your happiness levels.

6) They express gratitude

A common thread you’ll find among truly happy people is their practice of expressing gratitude.

Gratitude isn’t about ignoring life’s hardships or pretending that everything is perfect. It’s about recognizing and appreciating the good things in life, no matter how small they might be.

When they’re not at work, happy people often take time to reflect on what they’re grateful for. It could be a loving family, good health, a roof over their heads, or even the beauty of a sunset.

This practice of gratitude helps to shift the focus from what’s going wrong to what’s going right. It serves as a gentle reminder that even in the midst of challenges, there are still things to be thankful for.

A simple act of saying “thank you” can go a long way in cultivating a happier mindset.

7) They practice forgiveness

Holding onto resentment or grudges is like carrying a heavy weight. It drains your energy and steals your peace of mind.

I learned this the hard way, when an argument with a close friend led to months of bitterness and anger. It was eating me up inside, affecting my mood, my work, and my relationships with others.

One day, I decided to let it go. I reached out, we talked it out and I forgave. Not just them, but myself too, for holding onto that pain for so long. The relief was almost instantaneous.

Happy people understand the power of forgiveness. They know that life is too short to spend it feeling angry or hurt.

When they’re not at work, they take the time to heal old wounds and let go of grudges.

It’s not always easy, but it’s worth it for the peace and happiness it brings.

8) They disconnect from technology

In an age where we’re constantly connected to our devices, happy people understand the value of taking a tech break.

It’s all too easy to get caught up in a cycle of endless notifications, emails, and social media updates. But this constant connectivity can lead to feelings of overwhelm and anxiety.

When they’re not at work, happy people often make the conscious decision to step away from their devices. Whether it’s for an hour or an entire day, this digital detox allows them to recharge, focus on the world around them, and engage more fully with the people they care about.

If you’re feeling stressed or overwhelmed, consider taking a break from technology. It might be just what you need to reset and boost your happiness.

9) They live in alignment with their values

Above all else, happy people live in alignment with their values. They understand what’s most important to them and they shape their lives around these principles.

This could mean prioritizing family time, volunteering for a cause they believe in, or striving for continuous personal growth. When their actions and decisions reflect their deeply held beliefs, they experience a sense of fulfillment and contentment that contributes significantly to their happiness.

Living in alignment with one’s values is a powerful way to live a meaningful and satisfying life.

So take some time to identify what truly matters to you, and strive to align your life with these values.

Happiness often follows when we live true to ourselves.

Final thought: It’s a personal journey

When it comes down to it, the pursuit of happiness is an incredibly personal journey.

What brings joy to one person may not have the same effect on another. It’s all about discovering what works for you, what aligns with your values, and what makes you feel content and fulfilled.

Remember, happiness isn’t a destination, but a way of life. It’s about finding joy in the journey, not just the end goal.

So whether it’s practicing mindfulness, nurturing relationships, engaging in physical activity, or any of the other habits we’ve covered, the key is to find what resonates with you.

So go ahead, explore these habits, experiment with them, and find your unique path to happiness. It’s a journey well worth taking.