Happiness can take different forms and represents a spectrum of satisfying emotions that contribute to emotional and physical well-being.

Pursuing happiness is one of the most common human searches, but it tends to be an elusive goal.

At a Glance

Happiness is a broad concept that can stem from a variety of positive emotions.

types of happiness

Illustration by Brianna Gilmartin, Verywell

It might come in the form of joy or excitement when we experience particularly fun moments in life.

Or it can be a feeling we find in moments of contentment or love for the people around us.

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Joy

Thefeeling of joycomes from losing yourself in thepresent momentand appreciating what you have.

This can be anything from yoga to amusement parks to your favorite music.

It’s also important to try some new things to find novel avenues of joy.

However, it can be a motivating factor.

Excitement can also help you to get through jitters.

Excitement can also extend the positive feelings you get from an activity.

Let yourself revel in anticipation when you have something big coming up.

How to Feel More Grateful

Fortunately, cultivating gratitude isn’t difficult.

This isn’t the same as bragging or being “full of yourself.”

You’re not saying that you’re better than others because of your accomplishments.

When they succeed, they give themselves credit and take it as a sign of better things to come.

Become More Optimistic

Contentment

Contentment means being happy with what you have.

How to Increase Contentment

Strategies that can help increase contentment include avoidingcomparing yourself to othersand practicingself-acceptance.

However you look at it, both are vital to have in your life.

This is a form of happiness that can come in endless supply.

Keep in Mind

There is no one-size-fits-all approach to finding happiness in life.

You’ll never find a secret recipe or step-by-step guide that can lead to lasting happiness.

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