Research has shown a general feeling of autonomy to be an important part of our general feeling of well-being.  We need to feel in control of our daily lives. So then, how can we feel happy during times when large parts of our lives are regulated, limited or prescribed by others? This was the subject of a recent newspaper article in which 4 ‘happiness experts’ gave their views:

Of first importance, try to be realistic and accept that not everything is under your control. That acceptance in itself can really lighten the load. Then, having let go of the big stuff, focus on the small things that you can control. Contact a friend for a chat, arrange to meet for a coffee or a walk; plan a film night, make a photo-book from some of those photos cluttering up your phone. (maybe connect with people via a web-site such as this one!) Plan a journey you would like to take when it becomes easier to travel. And why not learn a new language –  ready to use when you do that travelling? Or, do something smaller like planting an orange pip then taking care of it as it grows.

When you look out of your window and see the weather becoming bleaker, try to focus on the changing colours of the tree leaves or the way they move in the wind. Wrap up warm and go for a short walk – fresh air can work wonders. If you’re not an outside type of person, find new recipes to make good use of the seasonal veg, knit something for a new grandchild – a lovely way to connect if you’ve been unable to visit them yet. A key thing is to make a decision – an active choice – to allow yourself to feel happy and enjoy what you’re doing.

One of the ideas I have read about in several places recently is to keep a ‘jar of joy’. At the end of each day, try to think of something you have experienced or heard about that made you feel good, write it down on a slip of paper and put it in the jar. Then they can be revisited at the end of the week or when you are feeling in need of some cheer.

Finally, don’t beat yourself up if you feel down. We all experience some ups and downs – allow yourself a little time out before refocusing, noticing beauty and enjoying the small things once again.

If you would like to read the original article, follow this link:

 https://www.telegraph.co.uk/health-fitness/mind/stay-positive-winter-pandemic-looms-four-happiness-experts/