5 Ways to Boost Your Happy Quotient

How happy is happy? Do you feel happy enough? In mathematics, a quotient is the answer to a division problem (or to simplify, a big number broken down into a smaller number of groups, with the number in each group being the quotient). Try this analogy: life is the big number, broken down into the little parts of life that make you unhappy, with what’s left being your happiness quotient. Okay, that’s a little over-simplified, but you get the point.

In working with young men and women Au Pairs who come to the US to live and care for children in American families, I have seen Happy in action. Young adventurers stay happy in the midst of great stress by using a variety of strategies, in combination with support from incredible Host Moms and Dads, friends, family and even little old me. These youngsters jump in headfirst (taking care of little ones is stressful, not to mention the language barrier and leaving your family, friends, country, everything familiar) and never look back. Here are the 5 steps to daily happiness:

1. Get some sleep - no one is going to conquer the world, or stay positive in the face of adversity, without a good night’s sleep, so do yourself a favor and have a consistent, sleep-wake-schedule. No less than six and no more than 9 hours is ideal for most people; kids need more.
2. Eat real food & water - crap in, crap out might be a bit graphic, but it’s true, so eat stuff that looks like it did when it was growing in nature (there is no such thing as a pop-tart tree or an M & M bush). You’ll feel better and your body will have proper fuel to function at peak performance. Avoid sugary, salty and fatty foods in excess. Aim for 3 water bottles each day, too.
3. Get up and move - 60 minutes per day is a goal, so work toward it, even if you start with a 10 minute walk. We do a 5K for fun every year, but I have yet to “run” it. Work movement into your day rather than trying to set aside 60 minutes for exercise. Stop what you’re doing and walk, stretch or even take the stairs instead of the elevator (even if there is no fire).
4. Do something generous, fun, that impacts others in a positive way - I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again: there are plenty of people in the world who’ll go out of their way to hurt you or be rude. Be someone who goes out of their way to be of service to others, to make others smile or just feel accepted by another human. Never expect something in return or brag about your contribution, but enjoy the silent satisfaction of having made someone’s day a little better.
5. Count your blessings - you may have many more reasons to be happy than your first thought. If you have the basics covered: health, home, food, water, clothing, you are better off than half the planet! Be grateful and appreciate what you probably take for granted.

If doing all of that doesn’t make you happy, sing! Seriously, singing or even just listening to music can really relax and make you happy. If you’re still not smiling, pet something furry like a cat or dog (and then wash your hands). Sign up for a ColorRun near you, the Happiest 5K on the planet. In honor of the International Day of Happiness on March 20th (this year and every year, via United Nations Resolution 65/309 and 66/281), do something to make the world a happier place. Happier people are healthier and live longer lives. Start small or go big, but be happy!