From Silly to Serious: 36 Unexpected Ways to Get Happy Now

By Lisette Mejia

Updated on 11/7/2016 at 8:30 PM

Kayla Coleman Photography
Kayla Coleman Photography

Isn't it ironic how finding the answer to happiness is sometimes just so serious? We try by listening to scientific studies or following positive mantras, but sometimes it's the things you never thought of that can lead to a sunny disposition. Ahead, check out 36 of those unexpected things that will make you smile.

  1. Buy a Hula-Hoop and go crazy with it.
  2. Eat the last piece of cake.
  3. Make an easy checklist so you can cross everything off.
  4. Wear your favorite clothes to run an errand.
  5. Wake up an hour earlier than usual.
  6. Wash all your dishes while listening to a podcast.
  7. Text solely in emoji with your best friend.
  8. Peel an orange in one peel.
  9. Roll down a hill, and then get out the grass stain.
  10. Face a fear, big or small.
  11. Play a card game at work.
  12. Practice good posture.
  13. Give away old clothes and furniture for free.
  14. Dance or sing in public.
  15. Forgive someone who's hurt you.
  16. Give yourself a pep talk in the mirror.
  17. Hug someone you just met.
  18. Sit in silence for five minutes.
  19. Take a power nap.
  20. Draw on a steamy mirror with your finger.
  21. Unfollow someone negative on Facebook.
  22. Plan a trip (but don't take it) just for the sense of anticipation.
  23. Realize how good it feels to stretch.
  24. Text your friends and ask them to tell you a funny joke.
  25. Eat a meal with your hands.
  26. Put your phone away for an hour.
  27. Rearrange your furniture.
  28. Watch home movies from your childhood.
  29. Fake a smile to boost your mood.
  30. Buy a box of cinnamon sticks just to smell them.
  31. Mismatch your socks on purpose.
  32. Snuggle with an animal.
  33. Watch a sad movie to feel better about yourself.
  34. Write in cursive like you're in second grade again.
  35. Learn the meaning of a new word.
  36. Take a day off just to have a movie marathon.