I recently watched a video on being happy. It mentioned that studies report saying: "thank you" at every opportunity increases one's happiness. I've also read, previously, that smiling increases happiness, even if you don't feel particularly happy.

During the video, the narrator began her conclusion with the words: "To get the ball rolling..." This caused me to imagine something called the "happiness ball". It includes such things as: smile allot... whether you feel like it or not. Say thank you as much as possible... and say "please" too. Saying "please" wasn't mentioned in the video. But, hey, it can't hurt... neither can "you're welcome". Offer sincere compliments when the opportunity arises And a bunch of other things.

So what else might be included in the "happiness ball"? All suggestions greatly appreciated!

Awesome idea The thank you thing really helps. I've tried to curb the amount of self-deprecating commentary to compliments and just smile and say "thank you." Eventually I get better at complimenting others but for now the most important part is to just accept other people's love. As for other things to... keep rolling (ahahahaha sorry)

Standing up tall with good posture actually helps a lot (Amy Cuddy: Your body language shapes who you are | Video on TED.com).

Things like, walking with your head held high is great. Don't look down at the ground (a sign of low self esteem) but upwards and smile at people. Even eye contact helps because you make a connection with someone.

Always treat yourself when you do something great (like ice cream and chocolate) even if it's something small like getting out of bed on a tough day to something larger like completing the important items on your to-do list.

And always make time to do what you enjoy (when you can find things you enjoy). Like hanging out with family. Or watching your favorite movies. I personally get it from flying kites haha.

Anyway, thanks for this

[Little Lulu]

Another link on TED talks about happiness was helpful for me:

According to research, turns out that choosing to be happy with what you have works as well as getting what you want. And since we frequently don't get what we want, choosing to be happy (or at least satisfied) with what we have is a good skill to hone.

Ajahn Brahm is a Buddhist monk who lives in Australia. (Earlier in his life, he studied nuclear physics in the U.K.) Videos of his talks are uploaded onto YouTube. In one video I watched, he said that we should learn to accept praise for what we've done & not brush it aside as being undeserved or redirect it to someone else. So you're in excellent company, keeprolling!

Sounds like the Buddha had it right to begin with! Thanks for your comment, Little LuLu!

[hamster-bamster]

I express my sincere gratitude on Yelp. In the past, you could say your thanks or send a card, but now there is a way to thank a small business owner publicly, generating more business to them and letting them know that their service is appreciated.

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