We all want to be happy and fulfilled in life. To achieve that we need to focus on our mental health. Believe it or not, it is a pretty important part of our overall health. But even after knowing all this, many of us still unwittingly fall into habits that reduce our happiness. On Mental Health Day, it’s important to reflect on these habits and explore the simple changes we can make to live brighter, more fulfilling lives. There has been a notable increase in mental health problems in recent times. Whether it’s pressure from work or emotional stress at home, everyone is facing significant challenges due to increased mental stress. According to ITC’s ‘2024 Fiama Mental Health Survey’, 82% of Gen Z participants believe that many people do not recognize the symptoms of mental health concerns, highlighting the need awareness raising and education. Here are six daily habits that contribute to feelings of unhappiness and discover practical solutions to overcome them.
The thief of our happiness: Procrastination
Procrastination is a clever and sneaky thief of joy. Putting off tasks automatically leads to last-minute stress, guilt, and a nagging feeling of dissatisfaction. It can create a vicious cycle of worry and avoidance, making us feel even worse about our responsibilities. What can you do about it? Break the task into smaller steps that you believe can be managed within your schedule. Instead of tackling one large project at once, focus on completing small tasks one at a time. Designate specific times for work and relaxation. Using tools like a calendar or to-do list can help you stay accountable and organized.
The trap of social networks: Comparing your life with others
We live in the age of social media, and it’s easy to fall into the trap of comparison. Even when we don’t want to, we look at snapshots of other people’s lives and feel inadequate, which can lead to feelings of unhappiness and self-doubt. What could have been done differently? Have you ever considered reducing the time you spend on social media platforms? ? Curate your feed to include uplifting and positive content instead of comparison-triggering. Take a moment each day to reflect on the things you appreciate about your life. Keeping a gratitude journal can help you shift your focus from what you lack to what you have.
Only see the negative side in everything
We will always develop a negative outlook on life if we only pay attention to the bad things. This constant negative behavior can affect our relationships and overall satisfaction as well as our mental health. What to do? When you notice yourself thinking negatively, take a moment to ask yourself if there’s another way to think about it. Try to reframe your thinking to get a more balanced perspective. Meet good individuals and situations.
No physical activity
A sedentary lifestyle can contribute to feelings of unhappiness and lack of energy. Physical inactivity is linked to many different mental health problems, including anxiety and depression. What can be done? Find ways to get active, even in small doses. A short walk, a dance session or stretching can significantly improve your mood. It could be just a 10-minute walk or a quick workout, setting achievable goals can lead to a feeling of accomplishment.
There are no routines in life
Living without a routine can lead to chaos and feeling overwhelmed most of the time. When our days are not organized, we can feel lost, contributing to unhappiness. What can be done here? Create a simple schedule that includes time for work, self-care, and recreational activities. A consistent routine can provide a feeling of control and stability. Allocate time in your routine for activities that rejuvenate you, such as reading, meditating, or enjoying a hobby.
7 positive habits to start your day
Sleeping haphazardly
Sleeping is a very simple activity, but you may have noticed that a small change in sleeping habits can bring chaos to our otherwise otherwise good day. Lack of sleep can affect our mood, energy levels and cognitive function. Poor sleep habits can lead to irritability and a reduced ability to cope with stress. What to do? Confirm that your bedroom is set up for sleeping. Keep it at a comfortable temperature, quiet and dark. Every day, try to go to bed and wake up at the same time. Maintaining a similar routine can help you sleep better and manage your body’s biological clock.
