Lately, I have been pondering the question, “What are some things that I can do to put myself in a better position to be more happy?”

The following is an outline summary of the things that seem to work for most people. It comes from a variety of sources and is not specific to any religion. It is not a formula for happiness. It is simply a set of good practices to get positioned for some more happiness.

1. Command Your Body – Be the benevolent dictator of your body. Don’t give in to its desires. Guide it toward optimal health.
   1. Sleep regularly
   2. Eat a balanced diet
   3. Drink a lot of water
   4. Exercise regularly
   5. Stretch often
   6. Breathe deeply
2. Feed Your Soul – Counter the noisy, busy, competitive culture. Refuse to be too busy. Make space for joy.
   1. Meditation / Prayer
   2. Solitude
   3. Music
   4. Nature
   5. Sabbath from work
   6. Enjoyable activity
   7. Gratitude
3. Stimulate Your Mind – Keep growing mentally. Exercise and feed your brain with new input.
   1. Read for pleasure
   2. Read for learning / wisdom
   3. Learn new skills
   4. Converse with interesting people
4. Connect with People – Take time to build honest, meaningful relationships. Give and take within your social circles. Avoid toxic people as much as possible.
   1. Family intimacy
   2. Friends who bring out your best
   3. Colleagues and neighbors
   4. Community (religious, municipal, social…)

When we practice these things — and not all of them are needed at all times — we are more likely to be more happy more often. And when we practice these things, we become a role model for our children, and they will follow in our healthy, happy footsteps. It might be the most important part of raising healthy, happy kids.