How to be a happier person: 4 daily habits that work

“There is no way to happiness. Happiness is the way.”

The great teacher Thich Nhat Hanh famously said these words. On the surface, they sound like a riddle. But when I reflect on them, they feel incredibly true: happiness isn’t something we arrive at. We do it in each moment, with what we think, say, and do.

As a meditation teacher, I’ve had my fair share of challenges—anxiety, depression, and OCD symptoms. I know what it feels like to wonder if happiness is something meant for other people. But with time, support, and consistent practice, I’ve found daily habits that help me feel more grounded, more present, and yes—happier.

If you’re wondering how to be a happier person in your everyday life, I’d like to share four habits I use every day. They’re simple, practical, and supported by science.

1. Be a friend to yourself

Why it matters:‍

When your inner voice is overly critical, happiness feels out of reach. Practicing self-compassion creates the emotional foundation for well-being.

What I do:

• I notice how I’m speaking to myself.
• I replace harsh thoughts with encouraging ones.
• I treat myself the way I would treat someone I love.

What you can try:

Say:

“It’s okay to feel this way.”
“I’m learning.”
“I deserve kindness—even from myself.”

This simple habit of self-kindness builds emotional resilience—one of the key traits linked to long-term happiness.

2. Share what you feel

Why it matters:‍

You don’t have to handle everything on your own. Talking about your emotions helps reduce stress and builds meaningful connections.

How I practice this:

• I open up to trusted people—even when it feels uncomfortable.
• I remind myself that being honest builds stronger relationships.
• I listen to others with the same openness I want for myself.

What you can try:

• Talk to a friend, therapist, or family member.
• Join a group or community where it’s safe to be real.
• Start small: “I’ve been feeling off lately, and I just needed to say it out loud.”

Feeling heard—and hearing others—helps normalize your emotions and strengthen your support system.

3. Live mindfully

Why it matters:‍

Mindfulness helps you slow down, reduce stress, and appreciate what’s good right now. It improves focus, emotional clarity, and overall well-being.

How I stay mindful:

• I take a few conscious breaths before starting a task.
• I pay attention to small joys—a tree outside, the taste of food, quiet moments.
• I meditate regularly to reset and recharge.

Try this:

• Pause and breathe before your next conversation.
• Look up from your phone and notice one thing around you.
• Use a short guided meditation to return to the present.

The Balance app offers quick, personalized meditations that make mindfulness easy to build into your routine, even if you only have a few minutes.

4. Trust the process

Why it matters:‍

Happiness grows with consistency. You don’t need perfect circumstances—just regular habits that support how you want to feel.

How I stay grounded:

• I focus on what I can control.
• I let go of perfection and choose progress.
• I return to these habits even when I don’t feel like it.

By showing up for yourself each day, you build a more joyful, grounded life, one small step at a time.

More habits that support a happier life

These simple, evidence-based practices can boost your emotional well-being and support a happier outlook:

Daily well-being habits:

• Practice gratitude: Write down 3 things you’re thankful for.
• Move your body: Physical activity helps release mood-boosting endorphins.
• Spend time in nature: Even 10–15 minutes outdoors can lower stress.
• Get enough sleep: Aim for 7–9 hours to support your mental health.

Mindset shifts to cultivate:

• Use encouraging self-talk.
• Set achievable goals that give you momentum.
• Focus on what you can control and let go of what you can’t.

Connection strategies:

• Be kind to others. Small gestures go a long way.
• Volunteer or support a cause you care about.
• Reach out when you need help. You don’t have to do this alone.

Learn how to be happy with the Balance app

You don’t need a perfect life to feel better. You just need steady habits that help you show up with more clarity, care, and self-compassion. And the Balance app can support you in creating a meditation habit with its personalized mindfulness tools and guided practices for sleep, stress, gratitude, and more. 

Download Balance today and start building your happier life: one habit, one breath, one moment at a time.

Because here’s the thing: Drop by drop, the bucket becomes full. So, keep gently returning to cultivating happiness as a way of life. Before you know it, happiness will not be just what you experience, but it will be who and how you are. 

After all, there is no way to happiness. 

Happiness is the way.