The Seven Predictors of Being Happy

Don't smoke

If you're smoking now, there's no better time to quit than right now. Not smoking or at least quitting early in your life is a big predictor of happiness.

Quit drinking

Enjoying a glass or two of wine is okay, but when you're drinking an excessive amount, it's not good for your happiness (and often is an indicator of other stresses in your life).

Maintain a healthy body weight

How do you maintain a healthy body weight? Eat until you're about 80% full. Practice intermittent fasting (which in itself is a good practice, but it will also reduce any snacks or junk food you eat in your 'off' hours). If you can't eat a good healthy meal, skip it.

Exercise

Especially important as you grow older, staying physically active (which can mean a lot of different things: walking, sports, weight training, yoga, etc.) is a predictor of happiness. Compare how you feel on days you work out vs. days you don't.

Develop an adaptive coping style

This one I had to read a few times to understand: an adaptive coping style is one where you confront problems head on. On the surface, this makes a lot of sense because letting problems sit is a source of anxiety and stress. Remember, if you can't do anything about it, there's nothing to worry about. And if you can do something about it, you don't need to worry about it.

It's times where there's a problem and we are just avoiding it that make it a source of stress and unhappiness.

Prioritize education

Even though I did not love school, I loved learning about new things - which is why I'm an avid reader. Lifelong, purposive learning is a predictor of happiness according to Arthur and a good question to ask yourself is: when was the last time I did something for the first time?

Focus on stable, long-term relationships

You might automatically think of a marriage and while that could be one stable, long-term relationship, Arthur says this can also be about people you count on and can grow together with. This could be close friends. This could be siblings. It is extremely handy to have a friend you can call at 4 AM and who will drop everything to help you. Do you have a friend like that?