16 Randomish Things That Can Make You Happy

I know a lot of people are on edge right now with the whole "Corona's in Sedalia" thing. But life doesn't have to be over. At least that's how I feel about it.  But then, I'm still working, I'm still healthy, so I guess I'm coming from a better place about it than some.  So I thought, let's focus on something good we can do to make ourselves feel better.

Science says there's SOME agreement on behaviors and circumstances that can make you happy.  But it's a pretty random list of stuff that's short term, long term, and that you can't even control.

1.  Go shopping.

But of course, maybe now, don't.  But online shopping is still a thing! And you can definitely order stuff online that's local.

2.  Play with puppies.

This is always good.  Sure, you can't go to the shelter now, but I bet you have a pet. Why not give them a couple more rounds of fetch today?

3.  Get a good night's sleep.

Always a necessity. I have really been a fan of getting enough sleep over the years. If I sleep too little or wake up too early and then go back to bed, my co-workers tend to address me as "look what the cat dragged in".  Never a good look.

4.  Get up early.

I've got this covered.  But what I think they mean is to get up earlier than you need to so you can get stuff done, etc.  I don't do that. I just get up, slap on some clothes, take pills, brush my teeth and leave.  Oh, and feed the mongrels.  I'll do that.

5.  Exercise for at least 20 minutes a day.

Does walking from studio to studio count? I know I need to get better at this.

6.  Sit up straight.

Now I'm starting to feel physically attacked.  I'm a terrible sloucher, particularly in front of the computer. I should get one of those things you wear on your back to make sure you sit up.

7.  Make a list of good stuff that happened to you.

See, now this could be pretty helpful.  I mean, it doesn't have to be life changing stuff. It can be as simple as "I made a pretty good dinner last night" or "My shirt really goes with my pants today" or "I'm not sick".

8.  Get married.

I think I already did.  There were papers and everything.

9.  Have kids.

Do stepkids count? 'Cos that's about as far as I'm gonna go on that route.

10.  Make at least $75,000 dollars a year.

I WISH.  I bet I totally know people who do and I have no idea.

11.  Have 10 good friends.

Sure, that one's covered.  They're a little strange, but so am I.

12.  Have a strong relationship with at least one of your parents.

Got it.  My Dad is the best.  The literal best.  Don't come for me on this one.

13.  Spend your money on experiences, instead of on material things.

If I had enough, I would.  But I gotta keep Husbando in salsa and hummus.

15.  Be tall.

NOW LET'S JUST TAKE A MOMENT. Not fair.  I am a classically short person. On good days I reach up to 5 foot 3.  I'm not short.  I'm vertically challenged.

16.  Be an only child.

Well, I guess they are happier? They didn't have to share toys and they didn't ever have to have their sister force them to eat cat food.

Not that I would know anything about that.

16.  Live in Australia, Norway, Sweden, Denmark, and Lincoln, Nebraska.

Australia has bugs, animals, reptiles and people who want to kill me at every turn.  No.  Norway, Sweden, Denmark... maybe.  Might be a little boring.  Or incredibly interesting because I only speak English. Lincoln, though? I've never been, maybe I shouldn't judge. Doesn't seem like the Happiness Capital, but what do I know?

What do you think of the list? Do you think you benefit from some of it? What would you put on your "that makes me happy" list?

Happily yours,

Behka