We all strive for happiness, yet sometimes it seems like an impossible ideal to grasp.

You might look around and see people who seem to be genuinely happy, living simple and fulfilling lives, and wonder what their secret is.

Is there a way to truly simplify your life and make it more enjoyable, or is it just a happy illusion that some people are able to maintain?

After researching psychology studies and observing the lifestyle of those who radiate genuine happiness, I have compiled a list of ways that these individuals create simplicity and joy in their lives. 

If these resonate, it might be time to incorporate some of these habits into your own life.

1) They prioritize their mental health

When it comes to genuine happiness, mental health is often the foundation.

People who are genuinely happy understand that in order to create a simple and enjoyable life, they need to prioritize their mental well-being. 

This doesn’t mean they are immune to stress, anxiety or depression. In fact, they may face these challenges just as frequently as anyone else.

But what sets them apart is their proactive approach to managing their mental health. They make time for relaxation, practice mindfulness, and aren’t afraid to seek help when needed. 

They appreciate that maintaining a healthy mind is key to experiencing life’s joys and weathering its storms.

They know that an enjoyable life starts from within and they are committed to making mental health a priority.

2) They embrace imperfection

In a world that often glorifies perfection, this might seem counterintuitive.

Genuinely happy people understand that life is not about creating a perfect picture, but rather about embracing the messy, beautiful chaos that it often is. 

They don’t waste their energy striving for unattainable perfection or comparing their lives to others’.

Instead, they accept that mistakes and failures are part of the human experience. They see these instances not as devastating setbacks, but as opportunities for growth and learning.

This acceptance of imperfection doesn’t mean they settle for mediocrity. Rather, it means they strive for progress and personal growth, while understanding that perfection is an unrealistic and unnecessary goal.

3) They practice gratitude

While it might seem simple, gratitude is a powerful tool for happiness.

People who are genuinely happy don’t just enjoy their lives, they appreciate them. 

They understand that life is filled with little moments of beauty and joy that often go unnoticed if not intentionally acknowledged.

They make a conscious effort to recognize and appreciate these moments.

Whether it’s the warmth of the sun on their skin, a good book, or a kind gesture from a friend, they take the time to acknowledge these moments and express gratitude for them.

This practice of gratitude helps them maintain a positive outlook on life, even when things are tough.

They know that there’s always something to be grateful for, and focusing on these aspects of life makes their journey more meaningful and enjoyable.

They use gratitude to highlight the positive aspects of their lives and keep their focus on what truly matters.

4) They cultivate strong relationships

Human beings are social creatures by nature.

Those who are genuinely happy understand the value and importance of strong, healthy relationships.

They invest time and energy into building meaningful connections with the people around them, whether it’s family, friends, or coworkers.

These relationships provide a support network in times of stress, a sense of belonging, and contribute significantly to their overall happiness.

Interestingly, according to the longest-running study on human happiness from Harvard University, strong relationships are the most consistent predictor of a happy life.

By prioritizing and investing in their relationships, these individuals create a fulfilling social network that contributes to their happiness and enjoyment of life.

5) They allow themselves to feel

Life is a whirlwind of different emotions, and genuinely happy people aren’t afraid to experience them all.

Despite societal pressures to maintain a constant facade of happiness, these individuals understand that it’s okay not to be okay sometimes. 

They allow themselves to feel the full spectrum of human emotions, whether it’s joy, sadness, anger, or fear.

They understand that suppressing emotions only leads to additional stress and unhappiness in the long run. 

Instead, they allow themselves to truly feel and process their emotions, recognizing that each one is a vital part of the human experience.

Their emotional honesty and ability to sit with their feelings, rather than avoiding or suppressing them, creates a more authentic and ultimately happier life experience.

6) They set boundaries

In our constantly connected world, setting boundaries might seem like a surefire way to isolate oneself.

However, genuinely happy people understand that boundaries are not barriers, but rather essential tools for maintaining a healthy work-life balance and nurturing their personal well-being.

They are not afraid to say no when they need to, and they understand the value of their time and energy. They prioritize their needs and aren’t easily swayed by the expectations or demands of others.

These boundaries allow them to spend their time on what truly matters to them and prevent them from becoming overloaded or burnt out.

By setting clear boundaries, these individuals ensure that they have the time and energy for the activities and people that bring joy and meaning into their lives.

7) They pursue passions

Life is not just about work, chores, and responsibilities.

Genuinely happy people understand the importance of pursuing their passions and interests. 

They make time for activities that they truly enjoy and that bring them a sense of fulfillment, whether it’s painting, hiking, reading, dancing, or gardening.

These pursuits provide an outlet for self-expression and creativity, reduce stress, and contribute to their overall sense of well-being. 

They allow these individuals to connect with themselves on a deeper level and add an extra layer of joy to their lives.

Maintaining a holistic approach to happiness

Happiness, as we have seen, is not a destination but rather a journey. It’s an ongoing process that involves a series of choices and habits that align with our values and contribute to our well-being.

Genuinely happy people understand this. 

They don’t seek happiness as an end goal but view it as a by-product of living a life that is true to who they are. 

They are not chasing after fleeting moments of joy, but instead, they are building a life that, as a whole, feels fulfilling and content.

It’s important to remember that everyone’s journey to happiness is unique. What works for one person might not work for another. 

The key is to try different strategies and see what resonates with you. Be honest with yourself about what you need and want from life.

Living a simple and enjoyable life is about finding balance, embracing authenticity and staying true to who you are. 

It’s about making conscious choices that align with your values and contribute to your overall well-being. It’s about living intentionally and finding joy in the journey, not just the destination.

Happiness is not a one-size-fits-all concept. It’s a deeply personal and unique journey that is as diverse as we are. 

So take these strategies, adapt them to suit your own needs, and start creating a life that feels genuinely happy to you.