Easy ways to add a little more joy to your day

Add a small splash of happiness to your regular routine with these suggestions.

Start your day on the right foot

Have something to look forward to. This can be anything, from your favorite cup of coffee to a planned catch-up session with a friend.

Kiss (or hug) someone you love. Psychologists believe that starting the day with affection can help foster a positive attitude and healthier lifestyle. In fact, a 10-year study concluded that men who kiss their spouse before work live five years longer, make 20-30% more money and are 50% less likely to get in a car accident.

Cross a dreaded task off your to-do list. The earlier you do it, the better, as your willpower is at its strongest in the morning.

Feel a sense of purpose. Think about how your day-to-day work impacts the lives of others. Ask yourself, “How is the work I’m doing helping someone down the road? What meaning can I find here?”

Say thank you. Help others feel appreciated and boost your own mood by actively practicing gratitude.

End your evening on a good note

Let go of work. Make a to-do list for the next day and include notes on how you’ll tackle each task. Once done, make sure to disconnect.

Turn your Tuesdays into Saturdays. Studies show what we most treasure about weekends is extra time with those we love, so schedule weeknight plans with family or friends.

Practice. Instead of spending your evening watching TV, a habit that’s been linked to lower life satisfaction, try practicing something you enjoy, such as knitting, creative writing or Sudoku.

Remember the good. Write down at least three good things that happened during the day, including why they were good.

Dim the lights. Ease into a good night’s sleep by turning off your phone, TV and computer at least one hour before bedtime. Using a smartphone for 10 minutes is the equivalent of spending an hour in bright daylight.

Don’t go to bed angry. Instead, aim to go to bed feeling grateful.

Sources: bakadesuyo.com; Time magazine; Journal of Personality and Social Psychology