Ways to Enjoy Life More

“Happiness depends upon ourselves.”

Aristotle

1. Savor each moment. We typically do not know when a particular moment will be our last. To make the most of each one, we can learn to savor and be mindful of every aspect it offers.
2. Be whimsical; think like a child. Remind yourself of the things that made you happy when you were young, such as running through the rain, smelling fresh flowers, playing fun games, and being carefree. Children revel in and enjoy the simple pleasures of life. We should endeavor to do the same.
3. Engage in physical activity. As well documented, the exercise of any type is a great benefit, whether for fun or sport. Exercise releases not only happy chemicals known as endorphins; it releases natural pain-relieving and stress-relieving chemicals.
4. Laugh more. To paraphrase Harry Ward Beecher, "Laughter is the best medicine." As with exercise, laughter releases the happy, feel-good chemicals known as endorphins. There is nothing like a talented comic, funny movie, or some good jokes to stir up those chemicals and assist you in enjoying everyday life more!
5. Experience a new activity such as trying a type of new food (ethnic cuisine would be fun), destination, or sport. Enrichment in experience contributes to the enjoyment of life; there is nothing like trying something new. Go for it!
6. Start a gratitude journal. Journaling is fun, proven therapeutic, and can only enhance your enjoyment of life and life's experiences. You are writing about and recording those experiences which make you happy and grateful serves as a continuous reminder of those special moments.
7. De-clutter. You would be surprised how liberating, and satisfying de-cluttering can be. You will feel lighter, fresher, and ultimately more joyful. Not only that, you will be more organized and efficient.
8. Keep learning new things. Learning new things gives you a new lease on life and keeps your brain/body connection young and active. When you look and feel younger, you automatically get more enjoyment from life.
9. Give back. You can give back to your family, community, and workplace. It doesn't have to be something colossal. It can be a small kindness by opening a door for someone, helping someone with a heavy parcel, or helping a new team member at work. The great feeling that giving back engenders brings added enjoyment to your life.
10. Plan for the future, but live in the present. We often get so caught up in planning and preparing for the future that we neglect to live and enjoy the gift. In a study conducted at Harvard, psychologists found that subjects were less happy when their minds wandered and when they were thinking ahead or daydreaming. It made them more miserable even when the thoughts were pleasant. Staying in the present made them happier and more content.
11. Celebrate your successes. Succeeding is a great way to boost morale and well-being further! Unfortunately, in this goal-oriented society, we often jump from one win to the next without taking the time to enjoy any of them entirely. So, no matter how seemingly small, be sure to enjoy the successes in your life.
12. Take time to appreciate nature. Nature is the soul's rejuvenator, whether you enjoy a peaceful walk on the beach, an invigorating swim in the ocean, or a hike in the woods. Life can be a joy when you make the most of all that nature offers.
13. Appreciate what you have. We often don't remind ourselves of the freedom and privileges we benefit from. If we stop reflecting upon all we have, we will enjoy life much more.
14. Appreciate your friends and family. It's easy to take our loved ones for granted; however, when times are tough, and life deals us some unexpected challenges, it is our dear friends and family to whom we turn for support and encouragement.
15. Know that you deserve to enjoy life more! Remember that life is short and that we deserve to enjoy and reap all its rewards. While we all have our share of challenges and adversity, we also have a big beautiful world full of potential adventure, discovery, and richness. It is up to each of us to take the time to appreciate and enjoy life more.

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