1. Make Sure You’re Giving Back

Do you give 10% of your income to your favorite charity or organization? Instead of spending money on yourself, you’ll feel happier giving to others. There’s something about giving that allows you to receive more in return besides just the act of giving to help others. When you give, you’re sending a message to the Universe that you know everything’s going to be alright.

According to a study published in 2010, “people experienced happier moods when they gave more money away—but only if they had a choice about how much to give” By giving, you’ll be taken care of, too. You see it from those with very little to those who have millions: you have to give to get, and by doing that, your happiness increases. You’ll feel better as well when you accomplish your goals.

2. Laugh Every Day (It’s Better than Money)

Do you spend time each day laughing? Do you purposefully find happy things to laugh about? When you laugh, you release happy hormones called oxytocin and endorphins. These are hormones that uplifts us as we share experiences with others. Even just making yourself smile will put you in a better place. It is thought that the fact that laughter releases these hormones in order to promote social bonding, so try getting together with friends for a good dose of laughter, as well as increased social connection. These are things that make you happy.

3. Foster Good Relationships With Family and Friends

Happy people don’t spend large amounts of time alone. By spending time with people you like and love, you forge supportive relationships that help people feel better during times of stress. You also bond with others through common experiences, such as life’s ups and downs. They become your support network and help bring more of the things that make people happy. People who don’t spend as much time with family or friends are more prone to loneliness and depression. Here’s How to Tell If You Are Fostering Positive Relationships in Life.

4. Take Some Alone Time

In contrast to spending time with family and friends, it’s important to step back and take some time for yourself in order to cultivate self-care. You can recharge your spirit and find a little peace. Taking some time away and being alone can do wonders for your mood and outlook, as well as help you find the meaning of true happiness. Use this time to do more of the things that make you happy, such as a favorite hobby, exercise, or simple relaxation. Even just sitting in the sun or listening to your favorite song can improve your life satisfaction in the short term.

5. Do What You Love

Have you ever heard the phrase, “Do what you love, and the money will follow?” Doing things that you love to do–and even better, getting paid for it–are good ways to boost your levels of happiness. When work feels like play, you’re more likely to enjoy other aspects of your life more, too.