How To Be Happier (and Healthier) in 2022

  It's hard to believe that we'll be soon welcoming in a new year - after all, since the start of the pandemic, time seems to have sped by while we've been stuck inside, not doing very much at all. Nevertheless, it's essential to recognize the new year for what it is: a new opportunity.

The first of January marks the start of not only a new chapter - but an entirely new novel - and you are holding the pen. This means that you get to decide exactly how the story will pan out moving forward.

With new opportunities and fresh starts comes the opportunity for new happiness - and the chance to be happier than we've been before. 

Photo by Alexa Williams on Unsplash

With that in mind, here are some top tips for being happier (and healthier) in 2022 and beyond. 

Recognize when you have a problem.

Sometimes, to achieve true happiness, we have to realize where we may have a problem standing in the way of this goal. For example, if you are dealing with an addiction of any kind, this could stop you from being truly happy as time and time again, you find yourself returning to the same negative behaviors. However, recognizing this means that you're on the path towards recovery and can then seek out additional help. You could then speak to a licensed therapist or check into one of the many Sunshine Behavioral Health luxury rehabs. While this may seem both daunting and difficult, getting help means that you can enact truly positive and transformative change in your life as a result. 

Develop healthy coping mechanisms.

Our happiness is often tied to our ability to cope with life's curveballs - whether you are dealing with workplace pressure or going through a breakup. Either way, if you want to work on your happiness in the new year, you must develop healthy coping mechanisms. That way, you'll find it easier to manage feelings of stress and anxiety whenever they crop up, instead of letting them consume you or slipping into negative behaviors. As a result, you should find as many ways to relax as possible - whether that means you develop a self-care routine or simply give yourself a break. You should also ensure that you no longer bottle up your feelings - as this is a clear example of a negative coping mechanism. Instead, speak to a trusted friend, family, or licensed professional whenever you need help. 

Start putting yourself first. 

Many of us find happiness in serving others - whether you like showering your friends with gifts or have a career centered around caring, such as nursing. However, to get more joy out of everyday life, you also have to be able to care for yourself. One way you can achieve this goal is by starting to put yourself first. For example, if you find that you are constantly changing your plans to make room for the needs and desires of others, it's important to understand that it's okay to say no. You don't have to take on an extra shift at work or spend time with those who make you happy. In fact, you don't have to do anything you don't want to do. While this can be hard to accept, learning how to put yourself first will change your life - and you'll be a lot happier for it.

Furthermore, you'll also learn that putting yourself first isn't selfish. It'll also make it easier for you to care for those around you.

Stick to a healthy lifestyle. 

Our mental and physical health are often interlinked - so if one aspect of your health is suffering, the other will likely follow suit. Therefore, if you're working on being happier in 2022 - you also need to work on being healthier. Thankfully, there are plenty of ways to achieve this goal. For example, you can stick to healthy eating plans by making healthy food taste incredible, meaning you're less tempted to order from your favorite takeaway. You could also rediscover your love of fitness by trying out some new exercise activities that leave you feeling excited about your next workout as opposed to feeling as though you'd rather skip it. Finally, you can make it easier to stick to a healthier lifestyle by setting yourself clear and attainable goals. You can also check out dentist near me stafford to keep your dental health in check. For example, you could try to set yourself the aim of beating your personal best at a specific exercise - whether you want to lift heavier weights or run for longer without having to stop. No matter how big or small, achieving your goals is also great for your confidence, pride, and happiness.