Want to Be Happier? Then Try! New Study Shows

Lisa Franchi September 11, 2013

Listening to an uplifting music is less likely to improve your mood, unless you allow yourself to. That’s the message of a new study appearing in The Journal of Positive Psychology. In two experimental studies, researchers Yuna L. Ferguson and Kennon M. Sheldon found that those who tried to become happier experienced significant improvement in mood and well-being than those who don’t.

In the first experiment, participants were instructed to listen to a ‘happy’ music. Some of them were told to try to feel happier whilst tuning in to the music and the rest simply listened. Those who actively tried to feel happier reported experiencing the highest level of positive mood afterwards. In the second study, participants listened to a range of ‘positive music’ for over two weeks. Results showed that those who were asked to focus on improving their happiness experienced greater happiness than those who simply focused on the music.

What made one group happier than the other? According to the researchers, it’s actively trying to be happy and using the right methods, like for instance, listening to happy music.

To be happy, one needs to try

“Our results suggest that without trying, individuals may not experience higher positive changes in their well-being," the researchers note. "Thus, practitioners and individuals interested in happiness interventions might consider the motivational mindset as an important facet of improving well-being." said Ferguson. Their work challenges earlier studies, suggesting that actually trying to be happy was counterproductive.

We all feel a bit down sometimes. Perhaps you had a stressful day in the office or you had a long exhausting argument with your spouse. The new study shows that if you will just try to be happy, then you can, and you will be, using the right methods. Aside from listening to feel-good music, here are some other simple strategies that can boost your mood:

Laugh. Just laugh. You might have heard of the saying “laughter is the best medicine”. Watch a funny video clip, read a humorous novel, or go over the silly photos of yourself – doing something that makes you laugh can instantly make you feel good.

Write it down. One of the best ways to let go of negative thoughts and feelings is to write about them. The act of writing makes you clarify and restructure your thoughts, and understand what you really feel. When you write, don’t forget to brainstorm on ways that can make you happier.

Shower. A long, relaxing shower can provide a quick relief from negative feelings such as sadness and anger. It’s also a great stress-buster. So if you are struggling to finish a task at hand but couldn’t focus, consider taking a shower first. It works, really!

Eat healthy. Don’t indulge in unhealthy snacks like cakes, cookies and crisps. They don’t offer long-term benefits to your mood. Snack on sweet berries, fresh fruits, or plain yoghurt. A healthy meal or snack can lift your mood without making you feel guilty afterwards.

Breathe. When negative things seem so overwhelming, just breathe. Take a few seconds to just focus on your breathing and allow your body to relax. With each exhale, you will feel that the tension is leaving you. Breathing is like washing your brain, clearing it from unwanted thoughts and emotions.

Dear Readers,

What do you usually do to cheer yourself up when you’re feeling down? Feel free to post a comment below.