The Guide to Happiness
- Main
Joy GosneyQuick tricks for instant bliss, and the secrets of staying happy long-term.
- 9 Things to Do NowSurprising ways to instantly improve your mood.
- 9 Quotes to Make You HappyTake a break and enjoy a few inspiring thoughts.
- 9 Energy BoostersFeeling sluggish? A few simple tricks can help you feel more awake.
- 32 Low-Cost, Make-You-Smile IdeasSweet, silly, kooky items, ranging from the weirdly practical (bow-trimmed rubber gloves) to the practically weird (a polo shirt for your pooch; seriously). Guaranteed to add fun to your day―at little cost.
Related Content
10 Ways to Be Happier
How to Change Things for the Better
Small Gestures With Big Impact
Read What Makes Women Feel BeautifulStart a Book Club Checklist
Whether you're looking for like-minded lovers of the classics or just an excuse to chat over cocktails, get a reading group together in just a few steps.
- Decide on the tone and theme of the club. Are you a die-hard mystery buff? A shameless Anglophile? Or an equal-opportunity bookworm? Decide whether you would prefer to focus on one genre or have an Amazon.com free-for-all, and set the tone, too: a scholarly meeting of the minds, a reason for a get-together, or something in-between.
- Spread the word. Alert friends, family, and coworkers that you’re starting a club; be sure to mention your expectations. Start collecting e-mail addresses. Your goal should be between 5 and 15 people, so everyone gets a chance to speak. New to the area? Post a flyer on the community board at your local bookstore or library, or check out Craigslist.org and ReadersCircle.org.
- Figure out the best time for everyone to meet. Coordinating busy schedules can be the toughest part of this process, but finding a good slot will boost attendance down the line. (After dinner, when younger kids have gone to bed, is a popular choice.) Something to consider: Will the time of the gathering warrant a meal (hello, potluck!), snack, or just refreshments?
How To: Relax and Breathe
Proper breathing is actually a learned technique, and once you know how to do it, you may find yourself much more able to manage stress throughout the day. Follow these simple breathing exercises and see what a difference they make for you.
