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Eight Steps Towards A More Satisfying Life
1. Count your blessings
One way to do this is with a \"gratitude journal \"in which you write down three to five things for which you are currently thankful----from the mundane(your peonies are in bloom)to the magnificant (a child's first steps).do this once a week,say,on Sunday night.keep it fresh by varying your entries as much as possible.
2. Practice acts of kindness.
These should be both random (let that harried mom go ahead of you in the checkout line)and suystematic (bring Sunday supper tp an elderly neighbour).being kind to others,whether friends or strangers,triggersw a cascade of positive effects---it makers you feel generous ans capable,gives you a greater sense of connectiopn with others and wins you smiles,approval and reciprocated kindness---all happiness boosters.
3.Savour life's joys.
Pay attention to momentary pleasure and wonders.focus on the sweetness of a ripe strawberry or the warmth of the sun when you step out from the shade.some psychologists taking \"mental photographs \"of pleasurable moments to review in less happy times.
4.Thank a mentor.
If there is someone whom you owe a debt of gratitude for guiding you ar one of life's crossroads,don't wait to expreee your appreciation---in detail and ,if possible,in person.
5.Learn to forgive .
Let go of anger and resentment by writing a letter of forgiveness to a person who has hurt or wronged you .inability to forgive is associated with persistent rumination or dwelling on revenge,while forgiving allows you to move on .
6. Invest time and energy in friends and family.
Where you alive ,how much money you make ,your job title and even your health have surprisingly small effects on your satisfaction with life.the biggest factor appears to be strong personal relationships.
7. Take care of your body.
Getting plenty o sleep,excersing ,smiling ans laughing can all enhance your mood in short term.practiced regularly ,they can help make your daily lifemore satisfying .
8. develop strategies for coping with stress ans hardships.
There is no avioding hard time.religious faith has been shown ti help people cope,but so do the secular beliefs enshrined in axioms like \"this too small pass\"and \"that which doesn't kill me makes me stronger.\"the trick is that you have to believe them. |
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