8 habits of people who are genuinely happy in life

Happiness—it’s what we all strive for, isn’t it?

But have you ever met someone who just seems to radiate joy, like they’ve found some secret formula for eternal happiness? And you can’t help but wonder, “What’s their secret?”

Well, what if I told you that happiness isn’t as elusive as it seems?

That it’s not about chasing big, momentous occasions but rather building a life filled with simple, yet impactful habits.

In this article, we’ll explore 8 habits commonly found in people who are genuinely happy in life.

No, these aren’t magical formulas or quick fixes. These are straightforward practices that, when implemented regularly, can cultivate a lifetime of joy.

1) Be grateful

Let’s start with something you’ve probably heard a thousand times before: gratitude.

Yes, gratitude.

But stick with me here.

Have you ever actually tried making it a daily habit?

Because it’s a game-changer.

People who are genuinely happy don’t just say “thank you” as a formality. They actively recognize and appreciate the good things that happen to them and the people who make their lives better.

Whether it’s the waiter who served their meal, the stranger who held the door, or the loved ones who stood by them, they make a point to express their gratitude.

Now, you might think it’s just about manners, but it’s not — it’s backed by science.

Studies have shown that practicing gratitude regularly can lead to higher levels of positive emotions, a stronger immune system, and even better sleep.

Sounds impressive, right?

Well, why not take a moment to reflect on what you’re grateful for?

Better yet, make it a daily habit.

It’s a simple step, but it has the potential to make a profound impact on your happiness.

2) Embrace positivity

Forget the cookie-cutter advice to “just be positive.”

Embracing positivity isn’t about plastering a smile on your face and pretending everything’s fine.

It’s about a deliberate shift in perspective, where you choose to focus on solutions rather than problems, and possibilities instead of limitations.

Let me explain what I mean here.

Genuinely happy people don’t dismiss negative emotions or events; they acknowledge them.

But here’s the difference: they don’t let negativity consume them.

Instead, they adopt what psychologists call a “growth mindset.” This means that they view challenges as opportunities for growth, rather than insurmountable obstacles.

Practically speaking, this could mean:

• Reframing setbacks as learning experiences
• Actively seeking constructive criticism
• Celebrating small wins as stepping stones to larger goals

It’s a proactive approach to life that fuels resilience and nurtures emotional well-being.

And it’s a habit you can start building right now.

3) Practice mindfulness

A few years ago, I decided to join my classmate’s mindfulness course, mostly to support him.

I didn’t expect much, to be honest. But what I found was transformative:

The course didn’t just improve my focus, it elevated my mood and made me genuinely happier.

Mindfulness is often associated with meditation, right? But it’s much more than that.

It’s about being fully present, appreciating the here and now, and finding joy in simple things.

It’s the antithesis of our multi-tasking, always-on-the-go lifestyle, which often leaves us drained and disconnected from ourselves.

And I bet this sounds fascinating to anyone who’s trying to be more happy.

The thing is that when you practice mindfulness, you unlock a certain clarity and tranquility that’s hard to describe but incredible to experience.

It’s like suddenly seeing the world in high definition, appreciating the texture and color in a way you never have before.

And the best part?

Anyone can practice mindfulness, at any time.

Whether you’re washing the dishes, walking the dog, or even in the middle of a stressful workday, you can tap into this deep well of serenity and joy.

Take it from someone who stumbled into a mindfulness course without expectations: this habit is a happiness game-changer.

4) Show kindness

There’s something beautiful about showing kindness to others.

It’s like a ripple effect: when you do something nice for someone, it not only makes them feel good, but it also boosts your own happiness.

A few years ago, I read a story about a woman who made it her mission to do one act of kindness every day.

It could be as simple as buying a coffee for a stranger, helping an elderly person across the street, or just giving a genuine compliment to a coworker.

The joy she felt from these actions was palpable.

To be honest, I believe there’s a profound truth in this.

When we extend kindness to others, we experience a sense of connection, a shared humanity that makes us feel good inside.

It’s almost like the universe is saying, “Well done! Here’s your dose of happiness.”

Now, kindness doesn’t have to involve grand or elaborate gestures.

More often than not, it’s the simple, everyday actions that have the most significant impact.

Holding the door for someone, paying a genuine compliment to a colleague, or listening attentively to a friend can make a world of difference.

These might seem like small acts, but collectively they generate a positive energy that flows back into your life in unexpected and fulfilling ways.

5) Value relationships

Perhaps not surprisingly, people who are genuinely happy understand the importance of meaningful relationships.

The result?

They invest time and energy into fostering connections that are based on mutual respect, love, and understanding.

Take, for example, the simple act of scheduling regular catch-ups with loved ones, whether that’s a weekly phone call to a family member who lives far away or a monthly dinner with close friends.

Believe it or not, these aren’t seen as obligations — but as vital parts of their own well-being and happiness.

Research backs this focus on relationships, showing that strong social connections can improve mental health, lower stress levels, and even increase longevity.

So, consider it my challenge for you:

The next time you think about pushing that coffee date to catch up on work, remember that you might be missing out on more than just a caffeine boost.

6) Pursue passion

Now let me ask you a question:

What fuels your soul and gives your life meaning?

I’m asking this because people who are genuinely happy don’t just work for a paycheck — they work for passion.

They invest time and energy into pursuits that ignite their enthusiasm, whether that’s a career, a hobby, or a cause.

These individuals find a way to integrate their passion into their daily lives, refusing to let it be overshadowed by mundane tasks or responsibilities.

Here’s the deal:

The emotional high that comes from doing what you love can’t be replicated.

The joy permeates other areas of your life, lifting your overall mood and setting a positive tone for your day.

Simply put, if you’re missing that vital spark, maybe it’s time to ask yourself what really gets you excited and how you can make that a more significant part of your life.

It could be painting, gardening, playing a musical instrument, or even hiking. In either case, genuinely happy people have something that excites them, something they look forward to.

This passion provides them with a sense of purpose and adds a spark to their lives. It’s like food for their soul that keeps their spirits high.

7) Forgive and let go

Let’s face it: holding grudges can be heavy.

It’s like carrying a bag of rocks wherever you go.

People who are genuinely happy understand this and choose to forgive and let go.

It doesn’t mean they forget or condone the wrong done to them — it just means they free themselves from the burden of resentment.

Here’s how it works:

When it comes to happiness, you might think it’s all about accumulating good experiences and relationships. But often, it’s just as much about what you let go of.

People who are genuinely happy practice the somewhat counter-intuitive art of forgiveness.

They understand that holding onto grudges and resentments is like carrying around a heavy backpack—it slows you down in your journey toward a fulfilling life.

Interestingly, forgiveness here isn’t just about others — it’s also about forgiving yourself.

Letting go of your own past mistakes and regrets is a liberating experience that brings emotional freedom. 

In this way, forgiveness becomes a gift you give to yourself, more than to anyone else. And once you’ve mastered it, you’ll find that it’s easier to focus on what truly contributes to your happiness.

8) Laugh often

Have you ever noticed how laughter has the power to change the atmosphere in a room? How it can turn strangers into friends and lighten even the heaviest of hearts?

The last habit—but by no means the least important—of people who are genuinely happy is that they laugh often.

The truth is that laughter is the universal language of joy, a form of communication that needs no translation.

It’s also a potent stress reliever, releasing endorphins that naturally elevate your mood.

But perhaps the most magical thing about laughter is its ability to bring people together, to create a sense of community even when everything else seems to be falling apart.

So why not make a conscious effort to find the humor in life?

To laugh not just at the jokes or the happy accidents, but also at the absurdities and even the hardships that life often brings.

Trust me, if you can find a reason to laugh even when the chips are down, you’ve unlocked one of the greatest secrets to genuine happiness.

Your roadmap to unshakable happiness

Now, you’ve learned the habits that contribute to a genuinely happy life.

But knowing them is only the first step.

The real magic happens when you integrate these habits into your daily life.

So why not start today? Why not choose happiness?

• Start by embracing positivity and make it your daily mantra.
• Practice mindfulness, even if it’s just for a few minutes each day.
• Build and maintain meaningful relationships, they’re the cornerstone of a fulfilled life.
• Laugh often, it’s the quickest route to a better mood and a brighter outlook.

The road to happiness is paved with choices, and every day presents a new opportunity to make choices that bring you joy, peace, and fulfillment.

As you go about your life, equipped with these habits, ask yourself: what choices will you make today to ensure a happier tomorrow?