We all know those people - the ones who, no matter what seems to be going on, are happy. Sure, they might experience the occasional bad mood, but by and large these people can see the silver lining in any situation and rarely lose the spring in their step. Of course, most of us struggle not to let one spilled cup of coffee or missed appointment ruin our day...so how do those people stay so happy all the time?

As it turns out, general happiness is more than just a genetic predisposition (though genes are a part of it). Happy people have certain traits in common, and fortunately, these are traits that anyone can learn to pick up and incorporate in their own day-to-day life. So, if you’ve ever wondered how to hold on to the warm feeling of a job-well-done all day long, or how to let go of the argument you had with your significant other by lunchtime, we’ve got some tips and tricks that will help you get, and stay, happier.

Live in the Moment

Instead of focusing on things that happened in the past, be ok with living in the moment. While processing can help, obsessing over things that went wrong can keep you from feeling happy long after they’re over.

Don’t Sweat the Small Stuff

For something to be worth your worry, it needs to both be important and be in your control. Important is something you have to judge for yourself, but ‘in your control’ means something you can change. If it doesn’t meet both requirements, why worry about it? If it is important and in your control, take whatever action you need to and then shelve it - you’ve done all you could do.

When Times Are Hard, Keep Going

Persistence is more than just an important trait in an employee! Happy people don’t back down from a challenge and won’t give up just because things are tough. Next time the water gets choppy, just keep swimming and know you’ll make it through.

Commit to Your Goals

It’s hard to stay motivated when you’re not working toward anything. Instead, envision where you want to be in 5 years, or think about how you’re working toward making the world a better place. Once you know what your goals are, you’ll feel more satisfied that you’re working hard toward them.

Surround Yourself with Happy People

It’s easy to see how spending time with a toxic person can be toxic, no? Well, the same is true for happy people. If you’re focusing right now on staying happier for longer, surround yourself with other happy people.

Take Care of Yourself

There’s a definite link between physical and mental health, so it’s important not to neglect either. While your mental health might be priority, don’t forget to take care of your physical body too, whether that’s exercising in the mornings or reading before bed.

Practice Healthy Coping Mechanisms

Even when you’re trying to be happy, things aren’t always going to go right, and it’s just as important that you develop healthy and effective coping mechanisms for when things go all wrong. They can be the difference between bouncing back quickly and getting derailed entirely.

Be Generous
 

Healthy, happy people make it habit to be generous (or to give more than they get). Donate to your favorite charity if you’re able, or do a friend a favor without being asked (or expecting anything in return). It might seem strange, but taking care of others will actually help you feel happier.

Take Risks

While you might feel like being comfortable is the same as being happy, studies have found that people who are happier are more likely to take risks. They seem to know that getting what they want won’t come from staying within their comfort zone; when you figure out what you need to be happy, don’t be afraid to be a little risky to get it.

Practice Gratitude

Sure, it’s a cliche, but it is for a reason - people who are happier practice gratitude, all the time. From writing a list in the morning and at night of what you’re thankful for to sending a loved one a quick “I’m grateful you’re in my life” message, practicing gratitude can help you feel thankful for your own life and happiness, which will only grow as you go on.