Ten habits to boost your mood and happiness
In the hustle of everyday life, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed, flat, or just a little bit off. But in times like this, it’s important to remember that happiness isn’t just something that happens to us – instead, it’s something we can cultivate through our daily actions. While no habit can solve every problem, building small, positive routines can help boost your mood and overall well-being. Here are 10 simple habits to incorporate into your life to feel more energised, optimistic, and balanced.
1. Start your day with gratitude
Practising gratitude - especially in the morning - sets the tone for a positive day. Each morning, take a moment to write down or reflect on three things you are thankful for (it doesn’t matter if they are big or small). This practice helps train your brain to focus on the good, rather than getting stuck in a negative loop.
Research has shown that people who practise gratitude regularly experience greater happiness and reduced stress.
2. Move your body (every little bit helps)
You don’t need a gym membership to reap the mood-boosting benefits of exercise. A brisk walk, a few stretches, or even dancing in your living room can release endorphins, your body’s natural “feel-good” chemicals. Aim for at least 30 minutes of movement most days. It’s one of the most effective (and free!) ways to lift your mood.
3. Get sunlight in the morning
Natural sunlight is crucial for regulating your circadian rhythm and boosting serotonin levels. In Australia, most of us are lucky to have access to plenty of sunshine, so make the most of it! Try to spend at least 10–15 minutes outdoors in the morning, because this simple act can help reduce symptoms of depression and improve sleep quality.
4. Practice mindfulness or meditation
Slowing down and being present can help break the cycle of worry and overthinking. Whether it’s a 5-minute breathing exercise or a guided meditation, mindfulness enables you to create space between your thoughts and yourself. The following apps provide simple ways to begin:
- Smiling Mind – a great app for adults and young people alike to achieve balance in their lives. It’s free and available in the App Store and Google Play.
- Headspace can help anyone seeking a convenient way to practice mindfulness. Available in the App Store and Google Play. It’s free and also offers in-app purchases.
- Insight Timer is a no-frills app that centres on the four key ideas of awareness, connection, insight, and purpose. Available in the App Store and Google Play. It’s free and also offers in-app purchases.
- Calm, for guided meditations and mindfulness sessions, is organised across specific sections, including anxiety, focus, and sleep. Available in the App Store and Google Play. It’s free and also offers in-app purchases.
5. Prioritise sleep
Lack of quality sleep is one of the fastest ways to tank your mood. Sleep affects everything from your emotional resilience to your ability to concentrate, making it a priority for everyone. Create a relaxing bedtime routine, avoid screens before bed, and aim for 7–9 hours of uninterrupted sleep each night.
6. Surround yourself with people who lift you up
We’re all wired for connection, and that’s why regular contact with people who support, understand, and energise you can significantly improve your mood and sense of belonging. Make sure you take time out to schedule a weekly catch-up with a friend, join a group activity, or start some meaningful conversations.
7. Eat for energy and mood
Your gut and brain are more connected than you might think. A balanced diet rich in whole foods, fibre, and healthy fats supports your mental health and energy levels. Try to incorporate more fruits, vegetables, nuts, legumes, and omega-3-rich foods, such as salmon and flaxseed, into your daily diet to boost your mood and energy levels significantly.
8. Limit doomscrolling and screen time
Spending hours on social media or reading negative news can gradually erode your mental well-being. While it’s fine to stay informed, constant scrolling often increases anxiety and comparison. So, it’s essential to establish boundaries around your screen time and consider incorporating a daily digital detox period - even 30 minutes away from your phone can make a significant difference.
9. Do something kind for someone else
Helping others, even in small ways, activates the same parts of the brain associated with pleasure and reward. It also strengthens our social connections and sense of purpose. It can be as simple as holding the door open, paying someone a compliment, or volunteering your time. Acts of kindness can be a powerful mood booster.
10. Create something (even if you’re not creative)
Engaging in a creative activity, such as drawing, writing, gardening, or baking, can transport you into a state of “flow,” where time seems to melt away and stress subsides. You don’t need to be an expert - the joy is in the doing, not the result - so find something that interests you and get creative!
Final thoughts
Boosting your mood and happiness doesn’t require a dramatic lifestyle overhaul. It’s about making small, consistent choices that support your mental, emotional, and physical well-being. Some days will be easier than others - and that’s completely normal. However, by intentionally incorporating a few of these habits into your routine, you can cultivate a more resilient and joyful life over time. Try picking two or three habits from this list to focus on this week, and see how you feel.
And remember, if you’re ever feeling stressed out and anxious about an unexpected bill, Safe Financial is in your corner. Take a look at our cash loans of up to $5,000 to find out how quickly and easily you can borrow extra funds. Once a loan is approved, the cash is usually deposited into your bank account within a few hours, so you can stop stressing and start smiling!