posted
04/30/12
People say: “Don’t mess with happiness.” And: “Don’t try to get happier than happy.” (Who says these things? Colin Cowherd. We’re mainly thinking of Colin Cowherd.) But before you can do that, first you’ve gotta know whether you’re actually happy. Which can sometimes be difficult. (Especially if your Zoloft prescription has expired.) So here are 11 signs of that glorious emotional state. If you exhibit a majority of these behaviors, then congrats: there’s a strong chance you’re feeling pretty good about life, amigo. If not, try them out and watch your mood change.
1. You Make a Lot of Eye Contact
“Can you, like, blink? This is starting to creep me out.”
According to a study in the British Journal of Psychology, happy people actively seek eye contact. Whereas sad people avoid the eyes. So if you’re “checking in” with everybody you see, you might be happy. (Or you could just be Jeff Goldblum.)
2. You’re 95 Years Old
“Do these hats make us look old?”
Happy people live longer, according to a study from the University of Illinois. The Midwest researchers essentially showed that happiness causes better health and longevity. So if Willard Scott announces your birthday every year, you’re in good shape. Provided someone is around to change your diaper.
3. You’re Kind, Selfless and Empathetic
Theoretically the happiest woman ever.
“Happier people tend to be more interested in the problems of other people,” says Gretchen Rubin, author of the book and blog The Happiness Project. “If you’re less happy, you’re going to be more self-absorbed and preoccupied with your own problems. Happier people don’t think of themselves as much. And they’re more likely to intervene to help other people.” So if you help ladies cross the street, you’re probably doing so with a smile on your face.
