Happiness isn’t about the absence of difficulties, but rather, how you handle them. And let’s face it, we all know those people that seem to stay cheerful, even when life throws them a curveball.

But, you know what? They’re not wizards or unicorns. They’re regular people like you and me. They’ve just mastered a few habits that keep their spirits uplifted in stormy weathers.

Being one of those perpetually happy people isn’t as hard as you think. Here are 9 habits those folks have in common. Read on, and you might just find the key to staying joyful, even in tough times.

1) They practice gratitude

Ever noticed how happy people seem to have a knack for counting their blessings? Well, it’s not just an instinct – it’s a habit.

Gratitude is a powerful practice that can shift your focus from what’s wrong in your life to what’s right. It’s all about appreciating the good and finding joy in the little things.

Happy people make a conscious effort to acknowledge and appreciate what they have, instead of dwelling on what they lack. They understand that even in the toughest times, there’s always something to be grateful for.

And the best part? Gratitude isn’t just a natural mood booster. It can also help improve your relationships, health, and overall well-being.

2) They embrace positivity

I remember a time when I was going through a particularly rough patch in my life. Everything seemed to be going wrong, and it was easy to get stuck in a loop of negative thoughts. But then, I realized something – focusing on the negative wasn’t helping me at all. In fact, it was only making things worse.

So, I decided to shift my mindset. Instead of dwelling on the bad, I chose to focus on the positive. I started acknowledging my small victories and celebrating my everyday joys. This simple change made a huge difference.

Happy people? They’re pros at staying positive, even when life throws curveballs. But hold up—this isn’t about sticking your head in the sand or faking a smile through the tears.

It’s about tackling your struggles head-on with a can-do attitude. Because let’s be real: storms come and go, but the sun always shines brighter on the other side of the tunnel. 

3) They stay active

Physical activity isn’t just good for your body; it’s great for your mood too. When you exercise, your body releases chemicals called endorphins, often referred to as “feel-good” hormones. They help to reduce feelings of stress and pain, and boost feelings of happiness, according to research. 

Happy people understand the power of staying active. Whether it’s a brisk jog, a killer gym sesh, or a chill stroll in the park, they’re all about keeping those endorphins flowing. It’s like their secret sauce for a kickass day!

So, the next time you’re feeling down, remember to get moving. Not only will it bring immediate relief, but it’ll also set the stage for long-term happiness and health.

4) They practice mindfulness

Embrace the power of mindfulness! It’s about seizing the present without judgment, tuning in to your surroundings, thoughts, and emotions without letting them overwhelm you.

Happy folks swear by mindfulness. They know the trap of fretting over the future or dwelling on the past.  

Whether it’s through meditation, yoga, or simply taking a few minutes each day to sit quietly and focus on their breathing, they incorporate mindfulness into their daily routine. This practice helps them stay centered and cultivate a sense of inner peace, even in the face of life’s ups and downs. And that, in turn, contributes to their happiness.

5) They maintain strong relationships

Let’s talk about something we all need – connections! We humans, we’re wired for it, you know? We blossom in the warmth of support, love, and those heart-to-heart moments.

Now, happy folks are on the ball with this. They roll up their sleeves and put in the effort to keep those bonds strong. They carve out time, shower their peeps with care, and watch those connections flourish. It’s all about giving those relationships the TLC they deserve.

Whether it’s spending quality time with family, catching up with an old friend, or simply being there for someone in their time of need, they prioritize their relationships. And in return, they reap the benefits of companionship, support, and shared joy that these relationships bring.

6) They practice kindness

Kindness is often underestimated, but it holds immense power. The act of giving, whether it’s a simple smile, a helping hand, or a grand gesture, can bring a sense of fulfillment and happiness that’s hard to match.

People who are always happy know this. They understand that kindness isn’t just about making others feel good – it’s about making themselves feel good too.

They make a habit of spreading positivity and helping others, knowing that these acts of kindness will brighten their own day as much as they do for others.

7) They know when to say no

A few years back, I found myself feeling constantly overwhelmed and stressed. I was juggling multiple commitments and felt like I was being pulled in a hundred different directions. That’s when I realized – I had been saying ‘yes’ to everyone else, but ‘no’ to myself.

Happy people understand the importance of setting boundaries. They know that they can’t do everything for everyone, and that’s okay. By saying ‘no’ when they need to, they ensure that they have the time and energy for what truly matters to them.

8) They embrace change

Change is a constant part of life. It can be frightening and unsettling, but it can also open up opportunities and lead to growth.

Happy people don’t shy away from change. Instead, they embrace it. They understand that while they can’t control everything that happens to them, they can control how they respond to it.

Rather than resisting change, they welcome it, viewing it as a chance to learn, grow, and experience new things. 

9) They choose happiness

Ultimately, happiness is a choice. It’s not something that’s dependent on external circumstances or other people. It’s a decision that we make every day, in every moment.

Those who are always happy understand this. They choose to be happy. They choose to focus on the positive, to be grateful, to be kind, to embrace change, and to live in the present.

Remember, happiness is not a destination – it’s a journey. It’s about finding joy in the journey, even when the road is bumpy. So, choose happiness. It’s the most empowering decision you can make.

Final thoughts: happiness is within your grasp

The habits we’ve discussed – practicing gratitude, embracing positivity, staying active, practicing mindfulness, maintaining strong relationships, practicing kindness, knowing when to say no, embracing change and choosing happiness – are not exclusive to a select few.

They are practiced by those who have understood that happiness isn’t conditional but rather a constant choice that can be made irrespective of circumstances.

These habits do not guarantee an absence of difficulties. Instead, they provide us with the tools to navigate through those challenges with grace and resilience. They remind us that happiness isn’t about eliminating all the darkness but learning to dance in the storm.