11 cheap and simple ways to feel happier

I feel like a typical blogger talking about bubble baths and candles but I’m all for finding happiness wherever possible. Here are some low-cost ways to create some sunshine in your day, without resorting to a pair of Louboutins. Although if you can afford them, please carry on!

1. Buy yourself a bunch of flowers. Better yet, visit a local park or botanical garden and take in the gorgeous colours and scents. There’s something about beautiful blooms that put a spring in your step again. They do for me anyway!
2. Have a good catch-up with someone whether it’s in person, via email, Facebook or WhatsApp. There’s always a way to keep in touch no matter where you are in the world or how busy life gets.
3. Run yourself a bubble bath, lie back and listen to your favourite music. Put on a face mask, give yourself a good scrub and then slather a rich moisturiser on your skin afterwards. I guarantee you’ll feel a bit better after a rubbish day.
4. Always be kind. Hold doors open, offer to carry bags, say please and thank you, compliment good service and consider other peoples’ feelings. You have no idea how a simple act of kindness can turn someone’s day around.
5. Exercise. There are times when I really can’t be bothered to go to the gym but there’s never a time when I regret going. Get a sweat on, even if it’s for 30 minutes. Better than nothing!
6. Give whatever you can to charity. Give your money, give your skills or give your time. Helping others less fortunate can make yours and others lives that little bit brighter.
7. Light candles. A clichéd girly thing to say but they make the room so much cosier, warmer and inviting, especially when the weather is miserable.
8. Get organised. Personally, I feel less stressed when I’ve got a sense of control. Make to-do lists, check the weather forecast, plan ahead, leave the house early, arrive early and do what you can to make things go smoothly for yourself. Of course, you can’t prepare for everything but you can make things easier.
9. Watch your favourite film or TV show. Admittedly, I’m terrible at watching TV because I prefer to be writing or procrastinating on social media but I love the sense of achievement that comes with finishing a box set or enjoying an old childhood classic on Netflix.
10. Spend time with your pet. Nothing like a good old cuddle with your dog to help put the world to right again. I tell Coco my life story on a regular basis, which also helps. She’s a great therapist.
11. Paint your nails. Pretty nails will always lift your spirits! A manicure always makes me feel pulled together even I’m feeling crappy.

Do you agree with my list? What do you like to do when you need a boost?