Thirty-Day Happiness Challenge

We hear it all the time: Happiness is health. And, while we have good intentions to be happy, it is impossible to feel this way all of the time. However, like with most things, practice makes perfect. And, yes, you can even practice being happy. Now, don’t get me wrong. No matter what you are feeling, those emotions are valid and should be recognized. However, there are times when we have to push ourselves to shift our perspective.

As we start a new month, I challenge you to find a little happiness in each day. So, here are thirty ideas to challenge you to find a moment of joy each day in November.

Day 1

Journal. Take a few minutes to write down your feelings, thoughts, and the things that you are grateful for. Incorporating journaling into your everyday life is a great way to release your feelings and allow you to reflect on your words at a later date.

Day 2

Do a random act of kindness. Whether it’s smiling at someone in the grocery store, or buying coffee for a stranger, the more kindness you put into the world the more you will get back.

Day 3

Take a self-care day. What is something that you have been putting off? A doctor’s appointment? A massage? Catching up on your favourite television series? Focus on yourself, and do something that makes you happy today.

Day 4

Cook your favourite meal. Gather all of the necessary ingredients, and make yourself a meal that nourishes your body and feeds your soul.

Day 5

Watch a great movie. Turn on your all-time top pick, put your feet up with some popcorn, and enjoy a film you never grow tired of watching.

Day 6

Take a social media break. Most of us love social media; however, sometimes unplugging from your device helps you to recharge. Even it’s just for an hour or two, taking a break from the online world can be rejuvenating.

Day 7

Donate to charity. What are you passionate about? Take today and make a donation, whether it’s monetary or the gift of your time, and give back to those in need. Giving to others always encourages happiness.

Day 8

Read a great book. Lose yourself in the pages of a fantastic novel. Pair with your favourite cup of tea or coffee, and you have yourself a wonderful afternoon or evening.

Day 9

Take a trip. Whether it’s an overnight excursion, or somewhere for an extended amount of time, getting away can be just what you need.

Day 10

Listen to a podcast. The best part about podcasts is that you can listen on the go! Whether you’re cleaning the house, commuting on the bus, or sitting and relaxing, a great podcast goes wherever you go.

Day 11

Write down what you love about yourself. Take ten or fifteen minutes and jot down what you appreciate most about yourself.

Day 12

Visit your family. Recharge with some of your favourite people. Meet up for a coffee, a meal, or a fun activity. If your family lives far away, pick up the phone and call them.

Day 13

Finish your to-do list. Complete those projects that you have been procrastinating. This will help fill you with a sense of satisfaction and accomplishment.

Day 14

Exercise. Get moving! Whether it’s a light stroll around the block, or a sweat infused work out at the gym, your body will thank you. The endorphins will spike your happiness in no time.

Day 15

Listen to music. Music is known to increase energy and happiness. So, turn up the volume and groove to your favourite tunes.

Day 16

Go to bed early. Shut down thirty minutes earlier than usual and give yourself some extra snooze time.

Day 17

Buy something for yourself. It doesn’t have to be extravagant; treat yourself to your favourite chocolate bar or a fancy coffee.

Day 18

Hold the door open for someone. While you’re out, make an effort to hold the door for someone. These small acts of kindness often have a huge impact on others, as well as on yourself.

Day 19

Make a list of goals. Write down a few of the goals you want to achieve. Whether it’s this week, this month, or this year. Putting your goals to paper helps to hold yourself accountable.

Day 20

Cuddle some animals. If you have a pet, give them some extra love and attention. If you don’t, head down to a local shelter and cuddle some animals in need of some affection.

Day 21

Get organizing. We all have that one closet or drawer that hides all those items that we don’t know where else to store. So, tackle that junk drawer today!

Day 22

Dress nicely. It’s easy to fall into a comfort zone with your wardrobe, and there’s nothing wrong with that. But, today, pump up your style and put on something you wouldn’t normally wear.

Day 23

Try something you’ve never tried before. Step out of your comfort zone and try something new. It doesn’t have to be outlandish but push yourself to be a bit daring and experience something you haven’t done before.

Day 24

Look at old pictures. Take a trip down memory lane and relive some of your favourite moments. Nothing makes you feel better than reliving special moments with friends and family.

Day 25

Phone a friend. Our lives get busy and we don’t always have the time to talk to our friends. Take ten minutes, pick up the phone, and call that friend you haven’t spoken to recently. It will make both of your days brighter!

Day 26

Try a new restaurant. Get out of the house and try a place in the city you have never been to before. Who knows! Maybe you’ll find your new favourite spot!

Day 27

Invite your friends over. Whether it’s to watch a movie or enjoy a meal together, call up your pals and ask them to come over.

Day 28

Tell people how much they mean to you. Take today to show appreciation to the special people in your life.

Day 29

Take a nap. Grab a blanket, settle into your favourite spot and rest for a few minutes. If you can’t sleep during the day, use this time to mediate.

Day 30

Write down five affirmations about yourself. Put them somewhere that you will see every single day.

If you do the thirty-day happiness challenge, I would love to hear about it! Share with me on social media!