Some things that really bother me about living in a first world country are the amount of unhappy people. While the majority of us have clean water, healthy food and sufficient shelter; we often get caught up in the little things. I know I am a prime example of this. When the new Jeffree Star liquid to matte lipsticks drop for the summer, I know I am going to want to buy all the colors! (Especially the yellow one. I mean how can you not want that!)

Besides just wanting the new lipsticks from Jeffree, I know we all are wanting to buy new limited edition pieces this summer. I know every time Kayne endorses something all the boys (and girls) I know jump at the chance to drop hundreds of dollars to "fit in" and when Kylie drops a new lip kit we all are refreshing the page to buy new lipsticks or glosses. Or when Taylor Swift writes another song about a failed relationship, every heartbroken girl (or boy) on the entire planet rises up in hate towards that poor man that she (T.S.) dated and the guy who dumped her (or him). Also, who can look away from HiddleSwift? Are they really together? Is it a ploy from the media? Who Knows!

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I'm not trying to spread hate about the pop culture, I'm trying to point out how much money and time we spend on things that bring us immediate joy and gratification, instead of working and cultivating lasting joy and gratification. On that note, here are my easy ways to live a happier lifestyle:

5. Find some sort of religious practice

It doesn't mean you have to go to church every Sunday, but having some sort of connection to an all powerful being (or beings) is incredibly wonderful. It could be yoga every night, or even just going for a run. Taking time to yourself and being connected to the people and beings around you opens you up to the world in a completely different way. It broadens your mind and opens up your soul. Breathe in Joy and Kindness. Breathe out Hate and Despair.

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4. Write about your day

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Having time to reflect on everything that has happened during the twenty four hours you were not writing about really helps to keep reality in check. It doesn't have to include what you ate (unless it was really good) and it doesn't have to be all knowing. Just writing down the important things will really help you stay in check with reality. Plus, when you are having a bad day, reading about the good days you experienced will lighten your mood. You don't even have to write if you don't want too, drawing a picture, putting stickers on pages or just doodling will help you relax. Taking this small amount of time for yourself will ultimately help you to lead a happier lifestyle.

3. "Weed your garden"

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We all have that one person in our life who is so toxic to us, but we are so scared to cut ties with them. I'm hear to tell you to cut ties. Weed your friend and family garden. Keep in the people who push you forward. Keep in the people who try to make you into a better person. Keep in the people who help you smile, and make you laugh. Keep the positive energy flowing. Pull out the people who at the end of the day don't respect you for who you are. Pull out the people who drain you of energy. Pull out the people who don't push you to be the best version of you that you can be. It doesn't matter how long you've known them. It doesn't matter how you know them, pushing out the people who are toxic in your life will only benefit you. It hurts, but no pain, no gain, love.

2. Make the change

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We all have that one thing we've been wanting to do for the LONGEST time EVER! Time is short, so if you want to improve your happiness, you have to go for it. No good things come to those who wait. Good things come to those who go out and get it for themselves. If you want to eat, you have to go out and kill the beast. In the words of Blair Waldorf, "Destiny is for losers. It's just a stupid excuse to wait for things to happen instead of making them happen." And we can all trust Blair, because she is after all Queen B. But in all reality, life is short. You may get 70+ years, and do you really want to waste them? Want to lose weight? Get to the gym! No excuses! Want to change your diet? Start today! Want to kiss that boy (or girl)? Go out and talk to them! Get their number! (Sidenote: I do not condone random makeout sessions with strangers, love takes time) Be the changes you want to see in the world. If we all said and did what we really felt, I'm convinced we would all be so much happier.

And lastly,

1. Be.U.

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In my sophomore year of high school we had a small but very powerful revolution of love and self acceptance. It was so beautiful. People told coming out stories, stories of healing from self harm and addiction, and some people just told stories of how they found who they really are. Our whole school united for maybe at the most three minutes, but in those three minutes the amount of love expanded exponentially and everyone felt it. The release of the good vibes and hugs shared in the Be.U. campaign really changed the way our students reacted to each other and how the staff treated us. We grew as a people, a united front. Like I said earlier, life is incredibly short, and the best way to spend that time is by being you, through and through. Love everyone and most importantly, love yourself.

I know it can be incredibly hard. In fact, I think it is almost easier to love other people. The only way to experience a full and happy life is by first loving yourself. Be the best version of yourself and I can guarantee you will see a happier and healthier version of you. Choose yourself every day. And don't forget to be goofy! These are just my tips and tricks on how to live a happy and healthy life. I've implemented all of these into my life and I've seen a positive change. I hope these can help you live a happy, healthy, full life! Remember to "Have Courage and Be Kind". ~Disney

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Disclaimer: I am not a certified health coach or therapist by any means.