Life is full of little things, and sometimes the little things are what we end up taking for granted. Unconsciously, we assume they will be guaranteed to us every day the sun sets and rises. These little things are what we do for ourselves, but more importantly they are how we create our own happiness.

Take a step back, look for happiness in your everyday occurrences and don't let the monsters in your head dictate the way you live each beautiful day. Life is too short to be anything but happy, so create your own happiness, be your own sunshine and make happiness a habit.

Here are some healthy, low cost, and deeply rewarding ways to help find your joy in the ordinary and boost your every day happiness:

1. Hug your mom (or any tight hug from someone important to you)

2. Don't stop smiling

3. Drive on an open road with the windows down

4. Drink your favorite cup of coffee/tea in your favorite mug

5. Write (thoughts, goals, dreams, wishes, fears)

6. Blast your favorite song and sing as loud as possible

7. Explore: travel to unfamiliar places and discover new findings

8. Or, go to your favorite "getaway" spot

9. Read a book that has been stuck on your "to-do list"

10. Take a trip to the beach in the winter

11. Express your gratitude and love to your friends/family

12. Display something you are proud of for your roommates and friends to see, and of course, for yourself to admire

13. Go for a run outdoors in a scenic area

14. Always, always, always laugh

15. Look up and let the sun simply hit your face when you're outside (even in the winter and even if it's only for five seconds, trust me)

16. Bake: try something new or dig up your favorite childhood recipes

17. Help and give back to others

18. Dance in your underwear around your room

19. Take a long midday nap/set aside time to yourself

20. Wear your favorite "feel good" outfit

21. Hang out with your family on a Sunday afternoon

22. Try a new yoga or meditation class

I truly believe the worst thing we can do in life is to depend on other people to create and maintain happiness for ourselves.

Find your joy in the ordinary of each passing day and whatever you decide to do, make sure it makes you happy. After all, happiness never goes out of style.