I recently received a letter from a thoughtful reader in his 70s. He shared his insights on something we all think about—happiness.
For many years, I believed happiness was like winning the lottery or having the perfect family. But that changed when I turned 70.
It was during a trail run last spring. I saw an elderly couple, probably in their eighties, taking their time, stopping to admire wildflowers. The woman smiled and said, “Another beautiful day to be alive, isn’t it?” Her genuine joy really struck me. Here I was, seemingly well-off and healthy, yet they radiated a contentment I hadn’t felt in ages. That moment launched my journey to discover what truly happy people do differently.
After months of observing and journaling, I discovered that happy people weren’t just lucky. They cultivated specific habits every day. I decided to try these habits myself, and everything shifted for me.
1. Morning Rituals Matter
Happy people seem to have a special calm. Their secret? They protect their mornings. In my old routine, I would wake up and dive headfirst into emails. No wonder I felt scattered.
Now, my mornings start at 5:30 AM. Those quiet hours before dawn have become my sanctuary. Some friends meditate, others write in journals, and one even tends to his garden. What matters is that we choose how to start our day, setting a positive tone for everything that follows.
Try waking up a bit earlier and doing something just for you. It might change your entire day.
2. Focus on the Positive
During my financial career, I learned that people see what they look for. If you’re focused on a particular stock, suddenly, everything seems related. Happy people apply this to life; they actively find things to appreciate.
I began noticing five beautiful things during my morning runs. It felt forced at first, but soon it became second nature. Happy people face challenges, but they also train their minds to see the good—like a friendly stranger or a text from an old friend.
3. Embrace Joyful Movement
As kids, we moved without thinking; it was all about play. Somewhere along the line, we turned exercise into a chore. Happy people rediscover joyful movement.
For me, trail running feels alive. At the farmers’ market where I volunteer, the vendors move with grace, not as if they’re exercising, but living actively. Find something that makes you smile, whether it’s dancing in your kitchen or playing with your dog.
4. Invest in Relationships
Happy people prioritize relationships as if their life depends on it—because it does. I saw colleagues advance in their careers while their friendships faded. They skipped gatherings for reports and missed their kids’ games.
Now, I reach out to someone each week. A quick text or a call makes a difference. Happy people also know when to let go of draining relationships, choosing to invest in those that nurture them.
5. Balance Routine with Flexibility
I used to think that happy people were always spontaneous, but they actually thrive on routines. They maintain regular meal and sleep times but adapt when life gets messy.
For years, I’ve kept a journaling practice. If I get busy, I don’t panic. I might jot down a few lines on a napkin instead. Structure can create freedom, allowing us to focus on what truly matters.
6. Give Freely
Happy people are generous, but not always in big ways. They share knowledge, compliments, and time without expecting anything in return. When you give without keeping score, you affirm your abundance.
Start small. Send a friend an article you think they’d enjoy or offer to help a neighbor. These tiny acts of generosity can create ripples you may not see at first.
A New Perspective
At 70, I finally understood that happiness isn’t a destination. It’s built through daily choices and habits.
These six practices may not sound revolutionary; you might have heard them before. But knowing them and actually doing them are two different things. Happy people embody these principles daily, often imperfectly but consistently.
Pick one habit that resonates with you and practice it for a month. Notice how it shifts your mood and outlook. You don’t have to wait until you’re older to find happiness. It’s available now in the choices you make today.
For more insights on habits for happiness, you can explore resources like the American Psychological Association for research-backed tips and studies.
Happiness is a journey, not a destination. And every step counts.
