Which things in life are really worth it and really contribute to your feeling of happiness? Seven universal tips are discussed, from income to love.

You quickly get used to a higher income: go for experiences!

A salary increase or a lot of money is comfortable, but not the most important thing for a feeling of happiness. Research shows that people quickly get used to their new level of prosperity. Gadgets quickly become commonplace and most of the time people don’t even have the time to use them regularly. How many times do they end up in the drawer? Impressions/new experiences are remembered longer and contribute more to your feeling of happiness. So, for example, if you can choose between a Nintendo or a day at Euro Disney for your child: choose the experience. So surprise yourself regularly!

Physical contact with your loved one

Touching your loved one reduces stress, improves your immune system and reduces the risk of cardiovascular disease. Being intimate with your loved one is one of the most cited sources of happiness among people. So honor your partner. Even if you sometimes have minor disagreements, just try to think of your partner’s good qualities. For men, marriage is certainly healthy. Scientific research has shown that married men are happier than men without a partner. In addition, a partner increases a man’s life expectancy by two years.

Also take time to rest!

Try to maintain a regular day/night rhythm. Aim for at least eight hours of sleep per night. So go to bed on time and do not do any strenuous or exciting activities two hours before going to sleep. Also try not to spend too much time in front of a screen in the evening. The light coming from the screens makes it difficult for you to fall asleep on time. Lack of sleep can cause chronic fatigue, reduced intellectual abilities and depression. Also try to maintain a sleeping pattern that is not too different during the weekend. Preferably go to bed no more than an hour later than during the week and sleep in an hour longer. Otherwise your body will be overworked on Monday.

Regular exercise: very important!

Not only will you feel better (all kinds of substances released during exercise reduce anxiety and mild depression). You also feel more energetic, it is good for your immune system and good for your figure. The blood circulation in your body improves, you breathe deeper and your heart becomes more powerful. Actually the very best medicine for many ailments. The following applies to everything: consult your doctor. It cannot be repeated often enough: regular exercise is very good for most people.

Invest in quality relationships

Also try to meet people outside of work. Take the time for others. Really try to listen to the other person. Don’t immediately come up with ready-made solutions, but listen. Be careful not to say, “Not now, I’m busy.” When you are feeling down, you also like to be listened to. Also try to meet new people who have ideas that don’t always exactly match your worldview. This can be confrontational, but it makes life more challenging.

Take time for yourself/do things you enjoy

Look around you regularly and think about how good you actually have it (in the Netherlands). You probably have a roof over your head, clean drinking water, good healthcare, enough to eat. You can send your children to school. Reflect on this regularly and count your blessings. See the abundance around you. Gather people around you who you like. Don’t just do work for the money, but also try to find work that suits you.

Control and live in the moment

Don’t try to force yourself to be happy about everything. Don’t be a control freak. Some things you cannot control. Just live in the moment and be aware of your body. Performs daily work calmly and with attention. This alone can be a relief. Set yourself moderately challenging, but achievable goals!