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7 Tips for a Happier 2025

Couple learns tips for a happier 2025

Small Changes That Can Have a Big Impact on Your Happiness

As we wrap up 2024 and look toward 2025, many of us consider how we can improve our lives going forward. If you’re looking for ways to enjoy life more, you may find that making small changes to your daily habits can have a big impact.

Following are seven tips that can help you become happier in 2025 and beyond.

#1 – Spend more time with family and friends.

Spending quality time with loved ones can have an immense impact on your emotional well-being, which is why it’s important to invest time and effort into developing and nurturing meaningful relationships.

Dan Gilbert, a professor of psychology at Harvard University, perhaps said it best: “We are happy when we have family, we are happy when we have friends, and almost all the other things we think make us happy are actually just ways of getting more family and friends.”

Identify the people in your life who mean the most to you, and make sure you’re prioritizing time with them above all else. After all, time is our most valuable asset. Use it well.

#2 – Exercise.

Did you know that exercise triggers the release of serotonin and dopamine, which are known to be mood enhancers? Not only that, but exercise increases your heart rate, bringing more oxygen to your brain. This added oxygen can actually help reduce the degree and frequency of negative emotions like nervousness or sadness — and you only need a few minutes of exercise each day to experience these benefits! According to the Mayo Clinic, even 10 to 15 minutes of activity can help reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression.[1] If you’re new to exercise, consider starting with a 10-minute walk or bike ride. The more often you exercise, the more energy you’ll have and the longer you’ll be able to keep at it.

#3 – Get enough sleep.

The benefits of a good night’s sleep include better memory and concentration, higher metabolism and a decrease in stress hormones. Prioritizing sleep is one of the best things you can do for both your mental and physical well-being. Most adults need between seven to eight hours of sleep each night for optimal health.

Developing a healthy sleep routine can help you feel happier and more engaged with the world around you. The following tips can help:

  • Give yourself a “bedtime” and stick to it.
  • Create a relaxing and restful environment.
  • Turn off electronic devices at least an hour before you turn in.
  • Have a wind-down routine that you follow every night (examples include reading a book, listening to calming music, practicing deep breathing exercises and journaling).
  • Avoid stress triggers as you get ready for bed (don’t check emails, stay away from news updates, resist the urge to scroll through social media, etc.).

#4 – Spend time outdoors.

Similar to exercising, you don’t need to spend countless hours outside to reap the benefits of fresh air and sunshine. In fact, spending just 20 minutes outside can help boost your mental well-being.[2] Make an effort to get outside for a few minutes every day, and you may start feeling happier before you know it.

#5 – Do something you enjoy each day.

Discover what brings you joy, and allow yourself to experience it each day. Maybe you love playing the piano, dancing or cooking. Perhaps you’re content to cuddle up with a good book. Whatever makes you happy, be sure to allow room for it in your daily life.

#6 – Practice gratitude.

It’s easy to get wrapped up in the daily stressors of life and lose sight of what’s truly important. However, making a conscious effort to give thanks for the things you’re grateful for can lead to a sharp boost in happiness and mental well-being.

Find time each day to practice gratitude. Whether it’s making a list of things you’re thankful for, telling a loved one about the good things that happened to you that day or making an effort to show your gratitude for others, the simple act of being thankful can have a grounding effect.

#7 – Smile.

Looking for a super simple way to feel happier? Smile! Just the act of turning that frown upside down can help elevate your mood, proving there’s truth to the saying, “fake it until you make it.”

Would you like to also feel happier about your financial situation in 2025? Creative Planning is here for you. Our teams help ensure your entire financial life is working toward achieving your long-term goals. To learn more, schedule a call with a member of our team.

This commentary is provided for general information purposes only, should not be construed as investment, tax or legal advice, and does not constitute an attorney/client relationship. Past performance of any market results is no assurance of future performance. The information contained herein has been obtained from sources deemed reliable but is not guaranteed.

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