Simple Secrets To Human Happiness That You Have a Choice In

First, happiness isn’t your goal. By “happiness”, really what we mean is “satisfaction”. Satisfaction is like happiness, but is a slower, mellower, and deeper feeling.

Second, these aren’t actually secrets. Find a happy old person (which I know isn’t as easy as it sounds) and ask them why they’re happy. Chances are they’ll tell you what’s on this list, more or less, maybe some of it but not all of it, and maybe a different version or flavor of the same meaning.

Third, you don’t need a study or a long-winded essay to understand this list. The things on this list are simple and work. If you don’t believe me, try them for yourself – you don’t have much to lose except some time, which you’re probably already wasting anyway.

Although everything on this works, this list is ranked in order of effect, from greatest to least, based solely on my personal experience. Your personal ranking may vary.

1. Do good for others without expectation of reciprocation. Note well: if you aggrandize yourself whilst doing such good deeds, you negate the positive effect on your own happiness.
2. If something is bothering you, deal with it as soon as possible.
3. Remember that the lives of idiots and assholes suck.
4. Complete tasks and projects. Avoid buying something for a new project before you finished your last project.
5. Be polite and considerate. Avoid returning evil for evil.
6. Do the right thing so that your conscience is clear.
7. Make and use lists, and otherwise be organized. Keep your spaces tidy.
8. Exercise. If you don’t, just try it. There’s a reason Nike’s slogan is “Just do it.” Put in the time. Put in the work. Just do it. Do it wrong, do it slow, do it a little, do it lame, but just do it. Something is better than nothing and anything helps. Afterward, you’ll feel better about life, the universe, and everything.
9. Believe in a higher power greater than yourself.
10. Engage with friends and family.

This list is not exhaustive, just my top ten.