Can you learn how to be more happy?

We all want it, but for many, it often feels just out of reach.

We all know happiness when we experience it. However, restoring it can be difficult when it disappears.

For years, I believed happiness was something I’d got to achieve once I hit a certain milestone. Once I earn X amount, I’ll be happy. Once I own a house, I’ll be happy.

But here’s the problem—every time I reached a goal, my happiness was fleeting, more desire took over, and a new goal took its place.

Does this pattern sound familiar?

The truth is, happiness isn’t something that’s waiting for us out in the future.

While our genetics and circumstances play a significant role, studies show that our thoughts and actions contribute to 40% of our happiness levels.

And this is what we want to start working on today.

“The purpose of our lives is to be happy.”

– Dalai Lama

5 simple mindset shifts to help you experience more happiness

1. Stop Tying Happiness to ‘When’

It’s easy to fall into the trap of thinking “I’ll be happy when…” But this way of thinking keeps pushing happiness further into the future.

Instead, shift your mindset to “How can I create happiness in my life today?”

• Find small wins in your work instead of waiting for a promotion.
• Enjoy the home you have now instead of wishing for a bigger one.
• Celebrate progress instead of focusing only on the end goal.

Happiness isn’t a finish line—it’s found in the moments along the way.

2. Set Better Expectations

Life won’t always go as planned. Unexpected setbacks, delays, and challenges are part of the journey. If we expect life to be smooth and perfect, we set ourselves up for frustration. But learning how to be happier starts with shifting our mindset.

Instead of resisting challenges, try this:

• See setbacks as part of the process, not signs of failure.
• Accept that tough times will come, but they won’t last forever.
• Find meaning in challenges—growth happens in discomfort.

When we stop expecting life to be easy, we free ourselves to find happiness even in the messy parts.

3. Be More Present

How often do we rush through life, distracted by our thoughts, phones, or to-do lists? Learning how to be more happy starts with recognizing that happiness isn’t something we chase—it’s something we experience. And we can only experience it if we’re fully present.

Try these small shifts:

• Put your phone away during meals and be fully engaged in conversations.
• Slow down and actually taste your food.
• Take a few deep breaths and appreciate the moment you’re in.

The more present we are, the more happiness we allow into our lives.

4. Align Your Life with Your Values

Happiness isn’t about having more—it’s about living in alignment with what truly matters to you.

Ask yourself:

• What are my core values? (Freedom, relationships, creativity, etc.)
• Does my daily life reflect those values?
• If not, what small changes can I make to bring them into alignment?

For example, if deep relationships matter to you, prioritize time with loved ones. If freedom is important, explore ways to add flexibility into your routine.

Happiness grows when your actions align with what’s truly meaningful to you.

5. Take Ownership of Your Mindset

Your thoughts shape your experience. If you focus on what’s missing, happiness will always feel out of reach. But if you focus on the good, you’ll learn how to be more happy and make joy more accessible.

Try this simple practice:

• Start your day by asking, “What’s one thing I’m looking forward to today?”
• End your day by asking, “What went well today?”

Train your brain to focus on positives, and you will naturally experience more happiness without altering anything else.

Final Thoughts: How to Be More Happy Starts With You

Happiness isn’t something we find—it’s something we create.

One of the biggest mindset shifts we can make is realizing that external situations have no emotions attached to them—we are the ones who assign meaning.

When we understand this, we become empowered. True happiness isn’t about controlling circumstances—it’s about mastering our responses. And that’s something within our control.

By making these five small shifts, you’ll stop chasing happiness and start living it.

If you’re ready to dive deeper and uncover what’s holding you back from learning how to be more happy, let’s chat. Book a free 15-minute call and start creating your unique path to a happier life today.