7 phrases only genuinely happy people use, according to psychology

Ava Sinclair by Ava Sinclair | August 10, 2024, 10:35 am

There’s a clear distinction between those who only appear happy and those who genuinely are. The real difference? It’s all in the words they use.

Genuinely happy people have a unique way of expressing themselves, subtly reflecting their inner contentment and joy. It’s not about grand declarations, but rather, everyday phrases that reveal their positive outlook on life.

Psychology has delved into this, identifying certain phrases that these truly happy individuals use. These phrases give us insights into their mindset and help us understand how they maintain their happiness.

Here are 7 phrases that only genuinely happy people use, according to psychology. So let’s dive in and perhaps, we can learn a thing or two to sprinkle some extra happiness into our own lives too.

1) “I’m grateful for…”

A cornerstone of genuine happiness is gratitude.

Renowned psychologist Dr. Robert Emmons, a leading researcher in the field of gratitude, has found a strong correlation between gratitude and well-being.

He says, “Grateful people experience higher levels of positive emotions such as joy, enthusiasm, love, happiness, and optimism.”

Genuinely happy people naturally express gratitude in their everyday language. They regularly acknowledge the good in their life and the things they appreciate, big or small.

This phrase “I’m grateful for…” is simple but powerful. It’s not boasting or showing off; it’s recognizing the positive aspects of life and appreciating them.

By expressing gratitude openly and frequently, genuinely happy people reinforce their positive outlook on life.

They focus on what’s going well and cultivate a sense of contentment. This is a habit that anyone can adopt to boost their own happiness levels.

2) “This too shall pass”

This phrase is a personal favorite of mine and an absolute life-saver during challenging times. It’s a simple reminder that all things, good or bad, are temporary.

During my most challenging days, when everything seemed to be going wrong, repeating “This too shall pass” to myself was like a calming balm.

It helped me remember that my struggles were temporary and that better days were ahead.

Dr. Carl Jung, one of the most influential psychologists, once shared, “Even a happy life cannot be without a measure of darkness.” This phrase mirrors that sentiment perfectly.

It’s not about denying difficulties but rather acknowledging them as part of the ebb and flow of life.

Genuinely happy people understand that life is full of ups and downs. They don’t shy away from acknowledging their struggles but they also don’t let these struggles define their overall outlook on life.

Adopting this phrase can be a powerful reminder that no matter how tough things get, change is the only constant and better times are always on the horizon.

3) “I’m not perfect, and that’s okay”

Let’s be brutally honest here. None of us are perfect, and those who seem to be perfect are usually just great at hiding their flaws.

Genuinely happy people have this amazing ability to embrace their imperfections rather than try to cover them up. They say, “I’m not perfect, and that’s okay,” openly and without any shame.

They understand that making mistakes is human, and it’s through these mistakes that we grow and learn.

Renowned psychologist Carl Rogers famously stated: “The curious paradox is that when I accept myself just as I am, then I can change.” This phrase perfectly embodies this paradox.

Accepting our imperfections doesn’t mean we stop striving for self-improvement. Instead, it means recognizing our flaws and using them as stepping stones towards growth.

It’s a liberating phrase to incorporate into your life. It relieves the pressure of unrealistic expectations and cultivates self-compassion, a key ingredient in the recipe for genuine happiness.

4) “Every day is a new opportunity”

As someone who’s had my fair share of bad days, I can tell you that this phrase has been a game changer. “Every day is a new opportunity” is not just an optimistic platitude, but a mindset that genuinely happy people adopt.

They see each day as a fresh start, a chance to begin anew. This mindset encourages resilience and adaptability, two traits that are closely associated with genuine happiness.

Albert Einstein once said, “Learn from yesterday, live for today, hope for tomorrow.” This phrase captures the essence of Einstein’s wisdom beautifully.

Happy people learn from their past without dwelling on it and look at each new day as an opportunity to create a better future.

Incorporating this phrase into your life can help foster resilience and maintain a positive outlook even in the face of adversity.

It reminds us that no matter how tough yesterday was, today offers a clean slate and the chance to make things better.

5) “I don’t know”

Now, you might be thinking, “How can admitting ignorance be a sign of happiness?” Well, it’s a little counterintuitive, but let me explain.

Genuinely happy people are comfortable saying “I don’t know.” They recognize that they don’t have all the answers and are open to learning from others.

This openness to new ideas and experiences is a key contributor to their happiness.

Sigmund Freud, the pioneer of psychoanalysis, once expressed: “One day, in retrospect, the years of struggle will strike you as the most beautiful.” This phrase beautifully ties into Freud’s sentiment.

Admitting “I don’t know” could be seen as a struggle or uncertainty – but in reality, it’s a beautiful opportunity to learn and grow.

6) “I choose positivity”

Choosing positivity is a powerful decision that genuinely happy people make every day. They don’t deny the negatives in life, but they actively choose to focus on the positives.

“I choose positivity” is a phrase that embodies their proactive approach to happiness. It’s not about ignoring life’s difficulties, but about consciously deciding to maintain a positive outlook in spite of them.

Choosing positivity is exactly that – an optimistic strategy for making a better future. By incorporating this phrase into your life, you’re taking control of your perspective and ultimately, your happiness.

7) “I’m doing my best”

One of the rawest and most honest phrases that genuinely happy people use is “I’m doing my best”. It’s a humble admission that they’re human, flawed, and can’t always get everything right – but they’re giving it their all.

Dr. Brené Brown, a well-known research professor who has spent decades studying courage, vulnerability, shame, and empathy, said: “Perfectionism is not the same thing as striving to be your best… Perfection is not about healthy achievement and growth.”

The phrase “I’m doing my best” is a testament to this wisdom. It’s about striving for personal excellence without getting caught in the trap of perfectionism.

Using this phrase helps maintain a healthy perspective towards achievement and growth. It’s an acceptance of one’s efforts and a willingness to be patient with oneself.

Final thoughts: It’s about perspective

The beauty of language lies in its power to influence our thoughts, emotions, and perspectives.

The phrases we often use can provide a peek into our state of happiness. The words genuinely happy people use are not just expressions of joy, but reflect their positive outlook on life.

Phrases like “I’m grateful for…” or “I choose positivity” are not just mere words. They are affirmations that help cultivate a positive mindset, fostering gratitude, resilience, and self-acceptance.

But remember, these phrases are not magic spells. Using them without truly believing in their essence won’t make you happier overnight. Genuine happiness comes from within and is nurtured by consistent efforts and a positive mindset.

So, the next time you find yourself in conversation or lost in your thoughts, pay attention to the words you use. They might just be telling you more about your happiness than you realize.