Here are 5 things which are indicators that will tell you that you are happy or not.
One: Do you Get up Early?
People getting up early have shown to be the happiest. Always used to hear that "early to be and early to rise, makes a man healthy, wealthy and wise". Obviously all these three aspects i.e. health, wealth and wisdom make a person happy. The morning breeze really has its impact on the mood, at the start of a day. 9 Reasons to Get Up Early describes the impact of getting up early on human mind and body.
Two: Are you spending quality time with your family?
Having opposite gender in the family (brother and sister) can be good. Spending quality time with family may include indoor / outdoor sports, family re-union at festivals (e.g. eid), visiting graves of dead ones in the family, BBQ at home etc. The family time takes one mind to a place where there is all good, love and affection. This has a calming effect.
F2F Family Quality Time: This report from the University of Wyoming outlines significant effects of family quality time on children's well-being, including better grades and improved mental health. It highlights that teens who engage in leisure activities with parents experience lower stress and stronger relationship
Three: Are you spending time on Gardening or feeding birds?
Feeding birds in your backyard and gardening can be one of the happiest things to do. Gardeners are the happiest of all professions. Even prestigious and well-paid jobs don’t provide the same amount of happiness. For example, the least happy workers were HR and IT workers, as well as bankers.
Gardening and Mental Health The British Psychological Society highlights that engaging in gardening activities can lead to immediate reductions in symptoms of depression and anxiety. Regular gardening is associated with long-term benefits such as improved life satisfaction, psychological well-being, and reduced stress levels. Gardening also fosters social relationships and emotional connections, which are vital for mental health
Four: Do you feel enthusiastic while at work, work space / college / school?
Purposefulness and achievements are so essential for happiness. A strong indicator of these is the your passion, enthusiasm during your work hours.
Meaningful Work and HappinessA study published in the National Institutes of Health indicates that meaningful work significantly predicts happiness at work. Factors such as feeling appreciated by coworkers and enjoying daily tasks are shown to enhance happiness levels. The study emphasizes that individuals who find purpose in their work are more likely to experience positive emotions and job satisfaction.
Another study at Influence of Workplace Happiness on Job Performance: reveals that individuals with a positive attitude are more proactive and resilient, leading to higher levels of enthusiasm and job satisfaction. This positive atmosphere not only benefits the individual but also spreads to colleagues, creating a supportive work environment
Five: Are you undertaking Regular Exercise ?
Exercise is so much a natural need of our body. Teams sports are always a joy. Any format of outdoor exercise or a gym may indicate how strong you are at heart. Positive Association Between Exercise and Happiness:A systematic review of 23 studies found a clear positive relationship between physical activity and happiness. The review indicated that even small amounts of exercise could lead to increased happiness, with the odds of being happy rising significantly for those who are physically active compared to inactive individuals
So happiness can be so simple as that. Learn to be happy. Its all well inside you, don't run and look for it outside.