The 12 Happiness Practices

Prof. Sonja Lyubomirsky, The How of Happiness

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The 12 Happiness Practices

Prof. Sonja Lyubomirsky, The How of Happiness · 12 elements

Twelve evidence-based practices shown to raise wellbeing. The eleventh is practising religion and spirituality — this brand's whole thesis, already in the literature and already on FlourishTalk.

Each element below links to the passages in this collection that speak to it. The framework is not ours — it belongs to the researchers named above, and is reproduced here so you can use this collection through a model you already know.

Expressing gratitude

Counting blessings, acknowledging support, appreciating what you have.

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Cultivating optimism

Positive thinking; visualising best possible futures; maintaining hope.

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Avoiding overthinking

Stopping rumination and social comparison.

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Acts of kindness

Helping others, volunteering, showing compassion in action.

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Nurturing relationships

Investing in connection, quality time, meaningful interaction.

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Coping strategies

Building resilience, managing stress, growing through adversity.

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Learning to forgive

Letting go of resentment; healing from hurt.

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Engaging activities

Finding flow; pursuing what absorbs you.

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Savouring joys

Being present; appreciating moments; enhancing good experience.

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Committing to goals

Setting meaningful objectives and persisting through difficulty.

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Practising religion & spirituality

Finding meaning, connecting to something greater, cultivating transcendence.

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Taking care of your body

Exercise, nutrition, sleep, and the mind-body connection.

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