8 Steps toward a More Satisfying Life

Do you want to lift your level of happiness? Here are some practical suggestions from University of California psychologist Sonja Lyubomirsky, based on research findings by her and others. Satisfaction (at least a temporary boost) is guaranteed.

1. Count Your Blessings.One way to do this is with a “gratitude journal” in which you write down three to five things for which you are thankful—from the mundane (you peonies are in bloom) to the magnificent (a child’s first steps). Do this once a week, say, on Sunday night. Keep it fresh by varying your entries as much as possible.
2. Practice Acts of Kindness. These should be both random (let that harried mom go ahead of you in the checkout line) and systematic (bring Sunday supper to an elderly neighbor). Being kind to others, whether friends or strangers, triggers a cascade of positive effects—it makes you feel generous and capable, it gives you a greater sense of connection with others and winds you smiles, approval and reciprocated kindness—all happiness boosters.

Savor Life’s Joys.Pay close attention to momentary pleasures and wonders. Focus on the sweetness of a ripe strawberry or the warmth of the sun when you step out from the shade or air-conditioning. Some psychologists suggest taking “mental photographs” of pleasurable moments to review in less happy times.

1. Thank a Mentor. If there’s someone whom you owe a debt of gratitude for guiding you at one of life’s crossroads, don’t wait to express you appreciation—in detail and, if possible, in person.
2. Learn to Forgive. Let go of anger and resentment by writing a letter of forgiveness to a person who has hurt of wronged you. Inability to forgive is associated with the persistent rumination of dwelling on revenge, while forgiving bolsters positive feelings about your past and gives you peace of mind.
3. Invest Time and Energy in Friends and Family.Where you live, how much money you make, your job title and even your health have surprisingly small effects on your satisfaction with life. The biggest factor appears to be strong personal relationships.
4. Take Care of Your Body.Getting plenty of sleep, exercising, stretching, smiling and laughing can all enhance your mood in the short term. Practiced regularly, they can help make your daily life more satisfying.
5. Develop Strategies for Coping with Stress and Hardships.There is no avoiding hard times. Religious faith has shown to help people to cope, but so do the secular beliefs enshrined in axioms like “This too shall pass” and “That which doesn’t kill me makes me stronger.” The trick is that you have to believe them.

Live, love and laugh. Live long and prosper. Think Positive.

Do All of Your Christmas Shopping on Christmas Eve

Do All of Your Christmas Shopping on Christmas Eve


Many people wait until the last minute to finish their Christmas shopping. Are you one of those people who waits until the last day to do all of your Christmas shopping? Here is how you can do all of your Christmas shopping on Christmas Eve


Step 1 ) Wake up early on Christmas Eve. Stores will open early on Christmas Eve because of big sales and because those same stores will close early for the holiday. You need to get an early start in order to finish all of your Christmas shopping on Christmas Eve.

Step 2 ) Get the morning paper before you head out for your Christmas Eve shopping. The newspaper will have plenty of advertisements on Christmas Eve, telling you where you can find the best deals of the day. This is vital when it comes to doing all of your Christmas shopping on Christmas Eve.

Step 3 ) Make a list before you go Christmas shopping on Christmas Eve. Remember that you’re attempting to finish all of your Christmas shopping on one day. You don’t have time to browse around stores for hours. A game plan for Christmas shopping is necessary on Christmas Eve.

Step 4 ) Go to the biggest shopping center in your area on Christmas Eve. This place, especially if it’s a mall, will definitely be packed with last minute shoppers on Christmas Eve. There is no question, though, that you will find the best deals and the most presents at these large shopping centers. OR Search someting you need as a list in shopping online store and let them help you some so it can save your time for sure

Step 5 ) Avoid trying to find the perfect Christmas gift on Christmas Eve. The truth is that you’ve waited far too long and now you don’t have time to search for that perfect gift at the final hour. Christmas shopping on Christmas Eve means finding gifts in a timely fashion and having to choose from whatever is left on the shelves. ( Make a note or looking for some at website online - let help you save time to look at shopping mall)

Step 6 ) If all else fails, buy gift sets on Christmas Eve. Stores will be anxious to get rid of gift sets, so you’ll probably get an amazing deal on them if you’re out on Christmas Eve. These are quick and easy gifts to buy and can help you check numerous people off of your Christmas list.

How to Start Christmas Shopping Early

How to Start Christmas Shopping Early

Whether you are Christmas Shopping online or Christmas shopping in the store you will want to start your shopping early to maximize on great deals, reduce stress and fully enjoy the holidays

Step1 ) Make a list of all the people you need to buy gifts for this year - don't forgot teachers, co-workers, mail and garbage people, unexpected guests and of course all family and friends that you wish to buy for.

Step2 ) Write down ideas for gifts that you want to get for each person.

Step3 ) Keep the list in your purse and take it with you when you are shopping. Keep your eyes open for the items on your list to go on sale.

Step4 ) As you buy items for those on your list write it down and cross out the persons name so you'll remember that person is done!

Step5 ) Keep your items hidden until all of your shopping is complete, and then spend a day wrapping and labeling the gifts.