With the dull October mornings making the simpliest tasks, like getting out of bed in a morning seem like a chore, it's easy to feel gloomy. For some of us happiness is a difficult emotion to achieve and without answering deep questions of self-identity or escaping into a long period of meditation it can be hard knowing where to begin on your pursuit to happiness.
Our advice is to start with the basics, like going to sleep at a reasonable hour and not letting yourself get too hungry - science backs up that these two factors have a big impact on happiness. First off, attempt to recognise what makes you happy - spending time with family and friends, visiting the countryside or reading a good book. Whatever it is, start to build a list of things that you enjoy doing and prioritise those things. To get you started we've made our own list with ideas on how you can begin improving your general mood with 10 Ways To Feel Happier. 

This first and easiest step is to smile... Even when it feels like the hardest thing to do - research suggests that even forcing a smile can help to decrease stress levels. Even when you aren't feeling cheerful, you can still find reasons to smile. Focus on the positive things that are going on in your life. Your mood will lift and it will feel easier to smile.

Switch Off – Treat yourself to a digital detox. Even as little as 60 minutes without checking your emails or facebook feed is good for your mind, body and soul. Why not use your internet downtime to unwind with a good back, a pamper or mindful meditating session?

Get outdoors. Even if it’s just a walk around the local park after work or a gentle stroll on your lunch break, exposure to greenery (it’s as simple as gazing at trees) can seriously boost your mental health. Breathe in the fresh air and focus on your surroundings.

Buy yourself flowers. Brighten up your home and in-turn your mood with a fresh bouquet. Go for a floral arrangement in your favourite colours with a smell that makes you feel calm and content. 

Go to bed an hour earlier. Research shows that not getting enough z’s can make you less optimistic. Why not finish a long day with a soak in a bubblebath and allow yourself to feel well rested after a lengthy beauty sleep?

Try something new. Break out of your routine and mix things up! It can be as simple as walking down a different street on your way to work or taking up a new hobby - anything to help you to get off of autopilot mode and be present where you are.

Make plans. Having something to look forward to, even something small like making plans to grab a cup of coffee with a friend, can help to make you happier. Anticipation is like a secret weapon of happiness. Write your plans in your diary or on a calendar to make sure you're reminded of your plans each day.

HYGGE - Signe Johansen’s new book ‘How To Hygge’ hails the Nordic style of living. Focusing on key steps he reveals how the art of Scandinavian simplicity can positively impact your life. See Laura Wilson's (Wholeheartedly Healthy) blog post on Hygge here.

Write it down. Did you know that taking the time to write down 3 positive things each day will make you more optimistic and less stressed? Keep it with you in your handbag and place it on your nightstand and read over the entries to give you a quick pick me up.

Put yourself first. Even if it’s just a half hour to savour a cup of coffee or read a chapter of your book, it’s worth it if it means giving yourself a chance to recharge. 

Taking time to reflect, and making conscious steps to make your life happier, really does work. So use these tips to start your own Happiness Project and begin to add your own steps that you know work well for you. 

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