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Slide Notes

Welcome! I'd like to share some scientifically proven ways to increase your well-being and happiness.
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8 Science-Backed Ways to Get Happy

Published on Sep 16, 2020

8 tips for evoking well-being and happiness based on scientific research. (Adapted from Yale University course The Science of Well-Being by Dr. Laurie Santos)

  • Prepared by Carmen Castro

PRESENTATION OUTLINE

8 Science-Backed Ways to Get Happy

Welcome! I'd like to share some scientifically proven ways to increase your well-being and happiness.

1. Practice Random Acts of Kindness

Research shows that when we do kind acts for others, we feel good. In fact, doing multiple kind acts for others in the same day has shown to have increased and prolonged mood benefits.
Photo by Ben White

2. Be Grateful

Demonstrating gratitude for the people and things in your life increases your sense of happiness. Keep a gratitude journal or send a thank you note to someone who has helped.

3. Savor Moments

Appreciate the positive moments you are experiencing right now. By focusing on the "right now," you develop a sense of gratitude and connection that evokes positive feelings.

4. Practice Meditation

Meditation has long been known to help with our physical and mental health, but did you know that when you meditate, you increase your happiness level for extended periods of time, not just in the moment?
Photo by Kalen Emsley

5. Strengthen Your Social Connections

Let's face it, we are social creatures. The act of connecting with others in a meaningful way has tremendous happiness-boosting power. Research shows that the happiest people are those with strong social and family connections.
Photo by Duy Pham

6. Invest in Experiences

Invest in experiences rather than material things for fulfillment. Research finds that even though most people believe they would be happier with more "stuff" (house, car, etc), the biggest happiness bang for their buck are experiences and not things.

7. Prioritize Sleep and Exercise

Regular sleep and exercise have great health benefits. Research shows that exercising 3 times per week for only 30 minutes a day can have greater mental health effects than medication.
Photo by Fitsum Admasu

8. Value Time

According to a research study, most people would choose money over time when given a choice. However, the research shows that having more time, not money, brings us greater happiness in the long run.
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