When I was in the workplace almost 20 years ago, I met a lot of unhappy people. They didn’t like the job, money was tight, their weight was out of control, or they would prefer to work for themselves rather than answer to a grouchy boss.
I did my fair share of complaining, but to answer this question, first, you need to ask yourself just what it is that you want out of life.
This takes a lot of soul-searching and if you suffer from arthritis pain, your choices may be more limited. It’s hard to find your “happy place” when your joints feel like they are on fire.
Let’s look at some ways you can live a happier life:
Determine Your Why
Carve out some quiet time and bring a notebook. What does your life look like now? What do you want life to look like in the future? For example, would you like to work for yourself? Maybe you would like to teach kids and make an impact on their lives.
I like working with seniors, and this is where my experience with arthritis would come in handy. Range of motion exercises, chair exercises, or healthier cooking classes are all favorites of those who are struggling with mobility and dietary issues.
According to the National Council on Aging, “regular exercise can help older adults stay independent and prevent many health problems that come with age.”
Write these goals in your notebook and keep them in a place where they are constantly visible. Tape the page to your mirror, so whenever you are in the bathroom washing your hands, you can review it.
Whatever you decide to do, remember change takes time, so even if it seems to take forever, don’t give up. You deserve a happier life.
Maintain Your Ideal Weight
You can’t lead a happier life if you are constantly battling health issues. Maintaining a healthy weight is easier said than done.
One thing that has helped me a lot is having my snacks at home. It’s more fun to hit the drive-thru, but I have more energy if I am eating nuts, string cheese, raisins, or yogurt.
Practice portion control. Use a food scale and measuring cups so you know exactly how much you are eating.
Exercise
I am 69 and I like to exercise. It is harder now because my ankles turn purple when I ride my stationary bike, and I have a torn meniscus in my knee that limits my walking. I have worked hard to build my knees up by doing physical therapy, and I ice my ankle every day.
According to the Mayo Clinic, “Focus on stretching, range-of-motion exercises, and gradual progressive strength training.”
I work out with five-pound dumbbells but if you want to start out at a slower pace, you can use two-pound dumbbells. My clothes feel looser, and who doesn’t like that?
Adopt an exercise plan and stick to it. It releases helpful endorphins that brighten your mood, and by working off calories, you can combine exercise and calorie reduction to keep your weight in a good place.
Carve Out “Me” Time
You can be so busy taking care of other people that you don’t take time for yourself. Run a tub of bubbles and pour yourself a glass of wine. Get out in the sun and tend to your garden. I like to read and when I do that, I have less time to think about my problems.
You also have time to pursue your goals. Since I have hand arthritis and a painful herniated disc in my back, I break my goals down into manageable chunks of time. I feel frustrated at times that I am not progressing faster, but I know I will get there.
Be Realistic
There’s always going to be someone who has more money, is thinner, and knows exactly what they want out of life. Find a rhythm that works for you, and don’t worry about what everyone else is doing.
Final Thoughts
Happiness will be different for each person, so take time to determine how that looks for you. Set manageable goals, and start working towards the things that will make you happy.
