Don't Pet the Sweaty Things

3 Habits of Naturally  Happy People, as recommended by a Psychotherapist  

How is it that some people just seem to radiate this wonderful, optimistic energy, no matter the  circumstances? 

I’ve worked with a particular person (a pharmacist), who, no matter how stressful the situation  became, would break out into a gentle song, or a whistle, when ‘the Going got Tough’. It  reassured all around him that ‘everything was in control’ and ‘we can handle this.’  

A ‘whistle while you work, can-do’ attitude. I love that. And so did everyone around him- staff and  customers alike. It reassured staff that things were in control, and his customers knew that they  were being attended to- they were seen and they were his priority.  

So, I asked him- how do you always stay so calm? So happy and seemingly in-control? And the  answers he gave have been proven time and time again… 

I like to move it move it!  

Get Moving!!! Any which way! Perhaps it’s a gentle walk around the park on a paved, level  walkway? Perhaps it’s swimming in the sea (unaware of what large marine creatures lurk beneath  you!)  

Perhaps it’s catching up with a friend and going hiking on one of Sydney’s beautiful trails (there  are so many) or maybe it’s being part of the local HIIT class where you literally feel like you’re  about to die for about 20 min of VERY intensive interval training!  

Whatever floats your boat, you need to do it.  

Endorphins are created during exercise- and these marvelous endorphins are what help to relieve  pain, reduce stress and improve your sense of well-being. Who wouldn’t want a big shot of that?  Yes please!  

Smile and say ‘Hi!’

Any type of connection- a high school friend that you’ve long since lost connection with? How  about sending them a WhatsApp message? 

A mother’s group friend who you really connected with when your bubs were tiny and crawling  around? An aunt that you haven’t spoken to for ages. 

That older person as you pass them on a walking track. You’ll be surprised by how a simple  ‘Good morning!’ as you pass someone on the pathway can light up their face- a returned smile  and a ‘Good morning!’ back. Connection, yes.  

Giving back doesn’t have to mean money to a charity- just a smile, a greeting or showing an  interest can absolutely make someone’s day. 

Social connectedness is the degree to which people have and perceive a desired number,  quality, and diversity of relationships that create a sense of belonging, and being cared for, valued,  and supported. - Centres for Disease, Control and Prevention 

Say Thank You, a lot

Yes, yes we’ve heard it all before- but have you actually TRIED it? Actually STARTED one of those  (albeit) cringey gratitude journals?  

Because I have, and it’s changed my days! Silly, random little things that give so much joy- and  that are only recognised and ‘brought to life’ through your Gratitude Journal (yes, perhaps we  should call it something else, lol) 

Be thankful for the little things- the sun that comes up every morning, being able to walk under  the trees and appreciate the breeze, a smile on a strangers face, and a pharmacist who sings a  little song and likes to whistle while he works.