5 Scientifically Proven Things That Make You Happy

When you're not feeling well, you google your symptoms. When you need to know the name of your new favorite song, you Shazam it. But are you doing the same for your happiness?

Just like everything else, there is a plethora of information on the internet from research articles, books, and medical blogs. 

You can increase your happiness with just a few small changes.

Lucky for you, you don't have to google because we did some research. Read more for five scientifically proven things that make you happy.

1. Schedule Something to Look Forward to

Sometimes having an incentive puts us at ease. Think about a time you planned a vacation or date with someone you like. The anticipation of the day your waiting for makes you so happy. 

Actually, Psychology Today shared that "sometimes the happiness in anticipation is greater than the happiness actually experienced in the moment — that’s known as “rosy prospection.” 

Plan something small like a date with your friend, a Monday treat for yourself, or an incentive for completing a task.

2. Spend Money on Experiences

Spend money experiences and stuff you think are fun- not including material things. Yes, buying new things make us happy, but if you haven't noticed, that happiness decreases. 

When we spend money on material things, that happiness is short-lived, but when we spend money on experiences, that happiness is long lasting. 

Dr. Thomas Gilovich, a psychology professor at Cornell University who has been studying the question of money and happiness, share that material things "remain separate from you. In contrast, your experiences really are part of you. We are the sum total of our experiences.”

Build your happiness by gaining anticipation from the new experience. Plan a wine tasting, rock climbing, or cooking class.

3. Practice Gratitude 

Doing little things like saying "thank you" is not only polite but it also boosts your mood. Speaking from experience, being polite is the least I can do to spread kindness.

Harvard studies show that practicing gratitude increases happiness and improves relationships.

Practice gratitude by saying thank you, writing a thank you note / send a thank you text, count your blessing 

4. Remember: Smiling is Contagious 

You can be the source of your happiness by just cracking a smile. We say smiling is contagious all the time, and we were serious. 

According to Psychology Today, smiling activates the release of neuropeptides that fight stress. When you smile, it releases dopamine, serotonin and endorphins, and that increases happiness and relaxation.

Make yourself smile more by doing little things make you feel good. 

5. Unplug from the Screens

World Happiness Report, activities related to smartphones and digital media, including the endless scrolling on your social media platforms, have been linked to decreased happiness.

Those who unplug often are typically happier. Take a break!