Since 2013 The United Nations has earmarked 20th March as the International Day of Happiness.
It is a day to recognise the importance of happiness in the lives of people around the world.
In 2015 The United Nations launched a strategy outlining 17 sustainable development goals that aim to eradicate poverty, reduce inequality and protect our planet – three key aspects that lead to well-being and overall happiness.
The United Nations invites each and every person to join in the celebrations for International Day of Happiness. There are many organisations that get involved in the conversations on social media and encourage a culture of sharing happiness on this special day.
The Action for Happiness website is one such place where you can get inspired by happy stories from around the world. There are also monthly challenges, posters and graphics to share with your friends and colleagues. Why not print one and put it up at work or share on social media? There is also an action for happiness app you can download for free on your phone that gives you access to daily insights and happiness inspiration from others around the world.
The Happiness List
One lovely thing you can do on happiness day is focus on the good and what makes you feel happy.
Take a pen and paper and write down all the things in your life that make you happy. It might be time spent with your children, enjoying a relaxing walk in the countryside or just simply a hug and a chat with a good friend. Focusing on these things helps you feel happier in an instant and you can keep this list handy for the future. If in the future you find yourself feeling a little low or you’re stressed and want to try help yourself out of it, take your list and use it as your ‘Happiness First Aid Kit’. What could you do from your list to instantly perk you up? Things on your list need not cost money or too much time and energy. Keep it simple and actionable and refer back to it when you need it.
