Happiness, like any emotion, comes in waves, but sometimes we want those waves to be a little bit bigger or to last a little bit longer! Personally, I love doing little things in my daily life that I know will make add an extra sprinkle of happy to my day. These can be tasks you do for yourself or for somebody else, or even for your favorite furry friend!

Do Something for Yourself

Although this may seem vague, it’s supposed to. Everyone has their own interests, hobbies, favorites, so I can’t tell you to go do something specific because…you may not like that activity! One of the most effective ways to add to my daily happiness intake is to do something for me everyday that is small. For example, I might stop at my local coffee shop on the way to work and get my favorite drink or snack. If I’m looking for something that won’t cost me a dime, then maybe I’ll go for a walk or go sit at my favorite outdoor spot and read a new book!

Make Someone Else Smile

Sounds cheesy, but honestly, I find that I feel an overwhelming amount of happiness when I’m doing things for other people. Try paying it forward if you go through a drive thru, buy your coworker their favorite drink, invite your bestie out for appetizers, or even just text someone that you love them for no reason at all!

Play with Your Pet

I don’t simply mean toss them their favorite toy, actively play with your pet. Get up and get active with them! Be loud, obnoxious, silly, roll on the floor, etc. Doing this will create fun memories and get you moving. Your pet will love that you are so involved with them and showering them with this affection and attention. You’ll feel happier and so will they!

Volunteer at an Animal Shelter

If you live in area where you have animal shelters nearby, give them a call and see if they’re accepting volunteers right now. You might end up cleaning animal cages, but the majority of the time you’ll also get to hang out with the animals and make some new playful pet pals! You’ll love seeing all of them and they’ll love seeing you even more! On top of that, you’ll feel like a “good person” because you’re helping out a shelter and not enough people do that today!

There are dozens of other things you could add to your daily routine to increase your happiness, but these are a few of my personal favorites! Your life is supposed to be filled with joy, don’t forget that. Take those short bits of time to do something you enjoy, to make your friend smile, and make your pet (or even your friend’s pet!) smile by playing and visiting! Happiness is all around us, you just have to go for it!