Ways to make 2021 happier

Let’s cut to the chase: 2020 was a really hard year. You want 2021 to be much, much better. But you cannot depend on external circumstances to create improvements. What you can control is how you approach your near and dear and how you take steps to improve your own — and the world’s — wellbeing and happiness. So, six ways to improve your wellbeing:

1. Understand that the journey toward happiness and serenity is just that — a road trip.

2. Practice being present. Don’t stew over past slights or hurts — or possible future obstacles or worries. Think about your here and now. Psychologists from the University of Palo Alto suggest you take a few minutes to notice five things that you see, four things that you feel, three things that you hear, two things that you smell and one thing that you taste — and then proceed with your day.

3. Ask questions, listen to the answers. When you hear and find connection with other folks — even those with whom you may disagree — you build the foundation for feeling more at home, and happier, in the world around you. And you make them feel more comfortable too.

4. Express gratitude. When you let someone know they’re appreciated, it reinforces their commitment to acts of kindness and improves their self-esteem. Expressing your gratitude also benefits you: It activates brain areas that help you make decisions, express emotions and feel empathy. It also reduces bodywide inflammation and improves sleep quality and mood.

5. Decide to take steps to make the world a better place through volunteering to help others either online or in person.

6. Rely on the ol’ reliable techniques for self-improvement — getting regular physical activity and eating a nutritious diet. Research published in Perspectives in Psychological Science found that consistent exercise and not smoking are strongly correlated with being happy.

Mehmet Oz, M.D. is host of “The Dr. Oz Show,” and Mike Roizen, M.D. is Chief Wellness Officer and Chair of Wellness Institute at Cleveland Clinic. To live your healthiest, tune into “The Dr. Oz Show” or visit www.sharecare. com.