SECRETS OF A HAPPY LIFE...

Don’t be too organised

The pressure to be organised can cause distress. When people are too ordered and follow a strict daily programme, there’s no space left over for impromptu diversions, which can not only be enjoyable but also relieve the tedium of routine.

You need to leave yourself space for relaxation, rest and calm – all important for your mental wellbeing. So don’t keep your nose constantly to the grindstone and punish yourself.

We all need downtime, especially if you have children who can be oppressed by the parental schedules of music lessons, karate, playgroups and the like. Children need time to enjoy nature, read alone and have space to breathe and think.