What are the shortcuts to happiness

What are the shortcuts to happiness 

Yes, there are some, and they are not the ones you usually resort to

A brisk 10-minute walk can boost your mood and self-esteem while reducing anxiety and stress, according to a new report. Beat the blues and boost your happiness quota with these other simple tips and tricks.

Buy play tickets, not shoes 
Psychologists at San Francisco State University(US) have discovered that experiences make us happier than objects because the excitement of buying something fades faster than good memories. Use your savings to snap up holiday or theatre tickets, not a designer handbag.

Spending time with pals
The happiest 10% of people prioritise relationships with friends and family, researchers at the University of Illinois, US, say. Also, instead of going out for drinks or a meal, try something different - such as mastering a new game.

Switch off the telly
Unhappy people watch 20% more television than self-described happy people, according to scientists from The University of Maryland, US. Reading was an activity linked to happier folk in the study.

Check your bank balance 
Money can't buy you happiness but, according to a survey by an insurance company, being in control of your finances most certainly makes you feel better. The study revealed that happiness, well-being and self-esteem are influenced by our sense of financial control and not by how much we deposit in the bank every month.

Do a good deed
Lending a hand, volunteering or doing something nice for free can increase your self-esteem and well-being, according to a study that was published in the Journal Of Social Service Research.

Fake a smile
A US study revealed that when students made frowning expressions by pushing their brows together, they felt angry - even when watching cartoons - but those who were induced to smile felt happier and found the shows funnier
.