Photo by Jon Gibbins on Unsplash

What makes you happy?

Today’s a good day to ponder that, because it’s not only the first day of spring—generally a happy time for most—it’s also the International Day of Happiness. 

Everyone wants to be happy

Happiness is not a small or unimportant thing. Even the United Nations has recognized that happiness is a human right and worth celebrating, and they have proclaimed March 20 the annual International Day of Happiness. This proclamation was intended to remind and encourage governments to consider the value of citizens’ happiness and wellbeing as well as economic opportunity and growth when creating public policy. Sadly, I think we have a long way to go before this is the case, but I appreciate the gesture. 

Social media and happiness

This year’s focus is on happiness and social media. According to U.N. International Day of Happiness partner Action for Happiness, “There’s no one ‘right’ way to use social media, but small, thoughtful choices about how we use it and how we treat each other online can make a real difference.”

I’ve fought my own battles with allowing social media to take up too much time and attention. Too much Instagram (my social media of choice) can definitely affect my happiness, so I appreciated these three suggestions from Action for Happiness to help us build a happier relationship with social media: 

First, choose when and how much time you spend on social media. If you want to spend less time scrolling, create a list of alternate activities, set a timer to limit use, and/or try a “digital sabbath.”

Second, don’t let scrolling social media take the place of in-real-life connection. It’s great to connect with friends and meaningful communities online—just be sure you also make in-person plans, and pick up the phone to call friends and family members when you can.

Third, curate your social media experience to support your wellbeing. Follow positive accounts, share uplifting stories and ideas, and don’t spread misinformation. And always, always be kind and respectful when commenting on other people’s posts.

Stop to appreciate what makes you happy

While social media often doesn’t make us happy, what does? Why not stop today and appreciate what makes you happy? I’ll go first. Things making me happy today include:

• Open windows bringing in fresh air
• Vlad the Inhaler helping me clean the house 
• Meeting a teacher friend for brunch
• Petting my purring cat

It’s impossible to ignore the conflict and suffering taking place in the world—and we shouldn’t ignore it—but let’s not forget what does contribute to happiness and wellbeing, for ourselves and for others. Will my happiness, or yours, hurt anyone? Unlikely. My being a grouchy jerk might, though. If I’m lucky enough to have the choice, I choose happiness. I hope you do, too.  

What’s making you happy today?