TRAVEL SOMEWHERE NEW

Traveling is one of the best ways to bring more joy into your life. Not only do you get to explore new places and meet new people, but you also walk away with great stories to share later (that time you saw an elephant up close and personal) and to think back on fondly. After all, good old-fashioned nostalgia brings on the happy feels, and also encourages a sense of connection and creativity. And you don’t have to drop the big bucks on an international plane ticket or backpack across the globe to make it happen (though you definitely can if you choose to!). You can take a mini road trip with friends to another corner of your region, or maximize a family vacation.

Travel provides a break from your usual routine, which can help you appreciate those “ordinary” days—and your home—more once you return. Seeking out new places also teaches you about yourself: You may discover that you love the adventure of not knowing what will happen next, or the charm of chatting up a seatmate on the bus.

SEND SOMEONE FLOWERS

Flowers are usually reserved for special occasions, but why wait for birthdays and anniversaries to bring a little dose of happiness to someone’s day (and your own too)? Send a brightly colored bouquet to a friend, partner, or family member for no reason at all—other than to show you’re thinking of them.

SET A TIMER FOR A BAD MOOD

The goal of happiness isn’t necessarily to completely eliminate negative emotions. It’s okay—and normal!—to feel upset at times. But you don’t want those more difficult emotions to weigh you down forever, or knock you into a self-defeating spiral. That’s where setting a timer on your mood can help: It gives you a specific amount of time to linger in those negative feelings. When the alarm sounds, you know it’s time to take a breath and move on. It may sound difficult at first, but the concrete time frame and deliberate act of setting the timer will help you to do so. So when you’re feeling sad, mad, or stressed, set a timer on your phone for two minutes and think or journal about everything related to the emotion. Once the timer goes off, you’ll be better able to hit the reset button on your mood and welcome in the good things around you.

ADMIRE A PAINTING

Looking at art, whether at a gallery or museum, or even in someone’s home or online, improves your mood. Some research even indicates looking at beautiful art is akin to falling in love, due to the release of dopamine in your brain. Take some time to examine a painting, sculpture, or other piece of art.

CHECK OUT A NEW PART OF TOWN

Exploring a new part of your town is a surefire way to add a splash of novelty and fun to your routine. Check out a neighborhood you’re not familiar with, or visit a local museum to learn about your city’s history or claims to fame.

CHEW MINT GUM

According to a 2010 study, chewing gum can make you feel less anxious, especially if it’s a mint variety. The physical act of chewing on a piece of gum improves your concentration and the way your brain manages stress, while the refreshing scent of mint stimulates your ability to focus. Stress aside, you’ll be able to enjoy the present and better appreciate the good things in your life.