International Day of Happiness

March 20 is the first day of spring. It is also the International Day of Happiness.  How appropriate!

The United Nations in 2012 proclaimed the 20th of March as the International Day of Happiness. The resolution recognized the importance of happiness and well-being as universal goals in the lives of human beings around the world.

Research shows that happier individuals tend to enjoy better health, improved productivity, and stronger social connections.

This year’s theme for the International Day of Happiness is “caring and sharing”.  It uplifts the importance of compassion, social connection, and collective well-being.

So, what does all this mean for us?

To share happiness, we must first feel happy ourselves.

What makes us happy?

·        Staying connected to friends, family, and loved ones

Close friends and family can change an unhappy day into a happy day. There is a direct connection between happiness and close relationships.

·        Having a purpose and meaning in your life

Researchers have found that a sense of purpose promoted happiness and wellbeing among adults. Your purpose needs only to be something that is meaningful and worthwhile to you.

·        Doing acts of kindness

Recent studies have shown that giving to others makes us happy, even happier than spending on ourselves. Also, people who practice acts of kindness experience a boost in their own happiness.

·        Practicing gratitude

Gratitude makes people feel happier. If you keep a gratitude journal that’s great. If you need a jump start with this, check out these six questions to evoke gratitude.

How can we make others happy?

·        Reaching out and let them know they are important

I know that on a personal level, I feel much happier and cared for when my sister calls me on a regular basis to check in and catch up. I try to schedule times to call friends, family, and clients to let them know that I am thinking about them.

·        Sharing funny stories, jokes, memes

When we share a laugh with someone, the brain releases “feel-good” chemicals. Serotonin brightens our mood, and we feel happy. My sons both share silly memes or videos with me on a regular basis. A funny video of one of my grandchildren always makes my day brighter. A couple of my friends are great at finding funny and relevant YouTube clips to share. Some make me laugh out loud and make my day happier.

·        Spreading positivity

We want to be a positive influence to other people. When you project positivity and happiness, it often triggers positivity and happiness in others.

Life gets busy and we often deal with challenges that can distract us from taking the time to reach out keep our relationships with others robust. Actually schedule time on your calendar to make phone calls or set up coffee dates that have nothing to do with moving your business or interests along other than just feeling happy.

While on this one day we highlight the importance of happiness, let’s make this a year-round practice.

If you are ready to work on any time management project that will free up some time for you to enjoy life, and want some tips, encouragement, or accountability for that project, join Diane Quintana and me in our Clear Space For You virtual clutter support group. The group will offer ideas, support, and gentle accountability for working on developing plans or projects.

Jonda S. Beattie, Professional Organizer owner of Time Space Organization, and co-owner of Release, Repurpose, Reorganize. She is based in the Metro-Atlanta area. As presenter, award-winning author, as well as a retired special education teacher she uses her listening skills, problem solving skills, knowledge of different learning techniques, ADHD specialty, and paper management skills to help clients.