HEALTH

You fill your Pinterest boards with inspirational quotes, you listen to motivational podcasts on the bus to school, you even signed up for a meditation class at school. All with one goal in mind: to be happy.

But ironically, your pursuit of happiness might be having the opposite effect—it could be making you unhappy. 

It actually makes sense when you think about it. Putting pressure on yourself to be all smiles, all the time is unrealistic and, when you do have some less-than-great thoughts or feelings, you're more likely to beat yourself up for it. Which leads to you feeling bad about yourself which could even lead to depression the longer it goes on.

Not to mention, obsessing over becoming a permanent member of the positive vibes tribe isn't healthy because you're no longer focusing on what *you* want. You're focusing on creating a life that looks "perfect" or that fits a certain mold. No wonder it won't make you happy... 

How can you change the must-feel-good-now mindset? Instead of focusing on being happy, focus on doing the things that make you happy. For example, if you love reading, carve out 15 minutes each night to curl up with a good book. Or if you love being around people and thrive on connections, ask that new girl to grab Starbs this Saturday.

The more you do the things you love (and cut out the things that are bringing you down or stressing you out), the happier you'll become. Without even really trying. So add *that* to your New Year's resolution list. 

What makes *you* happy? Tell us below! 

by Amanda Tarlton | 12/8/2018