Take a moment to ponder this question: Are you genuinely happy? Feeling happiness is the cornerstone of growth in all aspects of your life. Amidst the stress, uncertainties, and emotional baggage that often accompany executive roles, cultivating genuine happiness can be challenging. Fortunately, this article provides 10 powerful tips specifically designed for executives to experience instant happiness.

# 1. Choose Happiness Strategically

On average, you make around 75,000 decisions per day. From what to wear to when to sleep, most decisions stem from unconscious patterns. However, the choice to feel happy should be one of your first, if not the very first, decisions each day. If, like many, you reach for your phone immediately upon waking up, consider setting a lock-screen reminder: "What am I choosing?" Being aware of your choices, including the decision to be happy, helps you make the best choices each day.

# 2. Embrace the Present Moment

Living in the present is not always easy amid the demands of executive life. Many operate based on old patterns, tethered to memories or visions of the future. Accepting that life is as it is now, and that you cannot change it at this moment, liberates you from the burdensome emotions hindering your happiness. You can't alter the weather or yesterday's argument. Acknowledging and accepting the present frees you from the negativity of the past, allowing you to detach from negative emotions and unpleasant events, ultimately improving your current state.

# 3. Let Go of the Need to Be Right

In interactions with others, we often exist in two different worlds: the ego or the heart. When living from the ego, the drive to be right at all costs prevails. Unfortunately, this comes at the expense of genuine connections. Even if you win the argument, both parties can end up losing. Instead of acting from the ego and the need to be right, lead from the heart. Choose to be happy and share this feeling by following your heart.

# 4. Pursue Your Passions

Observing those who follow their passions reveals happy individuals. Whether it's a hobby, your work, or a talent you're developing, engaging passionately brings happiness. Follow your heart whenever possible and savor the joy it brings. Additionally, remain open to new experiences to enhance your happiness more frequently.

# 5. Practice Gratitude Strategically

Arguably the fastest way to induce happiness is through gratitude. When you're thankful for what you have, do, and who you are, an instant sense of happiness ensues. Consider maintaining a gratitude list by noting ten things you're thankful for before bedtime. This not only sets the stage for a restful night but also fosters peace, relaxation, and a profound sense of happiness. As you expand this list daily, you create a valuable resource to revisit during challenging times, reminding yourself of the aspects of your life for which you are grateful.

# 6. Forgive Those Who Have Hurt You

Forgiveness involves releasing old pain lingering in your body, mind, and spirit. Similar to the second point, this pain belongs to the past. Letting go not only creates more space and freedom for yourself but also heals the past, paving the way for the future. Recognize that happiness flourishes when you feel free. You desire freedom and happiness, so forgive yourself for past mistakes and for holding onto negative emotions.

# 7. Surround Yourself with Positive Influences

You are a reflection of the individuals with whom you most associate. Whether friends, family, or colleagues, ensure you surround yourself with those who stimulate, support, motivate, and positively impact your life. Positivity is contagious. By aligning yourself with positive influences, you enhance your own happiness and mental state.

# 8. Break Free from Routine

Occasionally, breaking free from routine is refreshing. Being a little unconventional is sufficient because, in the realm of executives, normalcy is already extraordinary. Don't let life's troubles distract you; instead, grant yourself the time to laugh, to be genuinely entertained by something that brings you happiness. When writing this article and searching for a photo, I immediately thought of my dog. It instantly brought a smile to my face, making me feel considerably happier. Whether viewing funny pictures, spontaneously dancing, or singing in the shower, embrace the opportunity to be a bit eccentric and immediately experience happiness.

# 9. Assist Others

Doing something positive for others contributes to your happiness. Every month, surprise a random shopper by covering their groceries. I've been doing this since 2007, and each time, the selfless act brings me happiness. It's a win-win situation; not only do you help others, but you also shift the focus away from yourself, benefitting society and making the world a better place. Whether assisting a neighbor with a task or giving a flower to a stranger on the street, making someone else happy also brings happiness to you.

### 10. Revisit Your Best Moments

If you find yourself reminiscing, focus on the positive. Recall the best moments of your life, whether from yesterday, last year, or a decade ago. A smile costs nothing and, in addition to gratitude, triggers a surge of oxytocin, the happiness hormone. You can also apply this technique to envisioning a beautiful future. What wonderful image can you conjure up by closing your eyes? A smile truly makes you feel happier.

My Question for You Today: What other strategies do you use to instantly boost your happiness? Share your thoughts below, and I'll be sure to engage with you.

To Your Success, 

Robert