Happiness is something we all strive for, but rarely achieve. From the moment we wake up to the time we go to bed we’re constantly searching for ways to feel good. But what qualities do those who manage to live a genuinely happy life possess? Here are 30 characteristics of genuinely happy people that can help you get one step closer to a life of contentment.

What Makes People Genuinely Happy?

Happiness is a complex emotion, and it’s one that’s often hard to define. But it’s clear that those who live a genuinely happy life have certain characteristics that set them apart. Here are 30 characteristics of genuinely happy people.

1. They Live in the Moment

Genuinely happy people understand that life is happening right now, and they make the most of every moment. They don’t dwell in the past, and they don’t fret about the future. Instead, they choose to be present and appreciate the beauty of the world around them.

2. They Don’t Compare Themselves to Others

Happy people understand that comparing themselves to others won’t make them any happier. Instead of looking to others for validation or success, they focus on what makes them unique and special.

3. They Practice Gratitude

Gratitude is a powerful emotion, and it’s one that can help us appreciate the good in our lives. Genuinely happy people take time to be thankful for all that they have, and they don’t take anything for granted.

4. They Don’t Sweat the Small Stuff

Happy people understand that life is too short to get too worked up over the small stuff. Instead, they choose to focus on the bigger picture and the things that really matter in life.

5. They Set Goals

Happy people understand that having goals can help us stay focused and motivated. They set goals for themselves and strive to achieve them, which can help them feel a sense of accomplishment.

6. They Take Responsibility for Their Actions

Genuinely happy people don’t blame others for their misfortunes. Instead, they take responsibility for their actions and make the necessary changes in their lives to ensure a better future.

7. They Have a Positive Outlook

Happy people approach life with a positive outlook. They understand that life isn’t always going to be perfect, but they strive to make the most of every situation.

8. They’re Generous

Happy people understand that a life of giving can bring more happiness than a life of taking. They’re generous with their time, money, and resources and are always looking for ways to help others.

9. They’re Optimistic

Optimism is a key characteristic of genuinely happy people. They understand that bad things are going to happen, but they choose to focus on the good and look for ways to make the best of every situation.

10. They Connect with Others

Genuinely happy people understand that strong relationships are essential for a happy life. They make an effort to connect with others, and they’re willing to put in the work to nurture the relationships in their lives.

11. They Let Go of the Past

Happy people understand that the past can’t be changed, and they make a conscious effort to let go of it. They don’t dwell on the mistakes they’ve made, and they don’t let their past define them.

12. They Celebrate Their Successes

Happy people take the time to appreciate the successes they’ve achieved. They don’t take their successes for granted, and they understand the importance of celebrating the wins in their lives.

13. They Practice Self-Care

Genuinely happy people understand the importance of taking care of themselves. They make time for themselves and practice self-care, which can help them feel more balanced and content.

14. They’re Kind

Happy people are kind to those around them. They’re compassionate and understanding, and they always strive to treat others the way they’d like to be treated.

15. They’re Open-Minded

Happy people are open-minded and willing to try new things. They understand that life is full of possibilities, and they make an effort to explore and take advantage of as many as they can.

16. They Accept Change

Change is inevitable, and genuinely happy people understand this. They don’t fear change, and they’re willing to embrace it and make it work for them.

17. They Don’t Dwell on the Negative

Happy people understand that life isn’t perfect, and they don’t dwell on the negative. They make an effort to focus on the positive and look for the silver lining in every situation.

18. They Give and Receive Love

Genuinely happy people understand the importance of love. They’re willing to give and receive love, and they make an effort to nurture the relationships in their lives.

19. They Have Fun

Happy people make time to have fun. They don’t take life too seriously, and they understand the importance of laughter and play.

20. They Take Risks

Happy people understand that taking risks can lead to greater rewards. They’re willing to step out of their comfort zones and try new things, which can often lead to growth and discovery.

21. They Take Time for Reflection

Genuinely happy people understand the importance of reflection. They take the time to reflect on their lives and make sure that they’re living in alignment with their values.

22. They Practice Mindfulness

Happy people practice mindfulness and are able to stay in the present moment. They make an effort to be aware of their thoughts and feelings and take the time to appreciate the beauty of the world around them.

23. They Don’t Sweat the Big Stuff

Happy people understand that some things are out of our control, and they don’t sweat the big stuff. Instead, they focus on what they can control and make an effort to make the best of every situation.

24. They’re Self-Aware

Genuinely happy people understand themselves and their needs. They make an effort to stay connected to their inner voice and use it to guide their decisions and actions.

25. They Laugh

Happy people make time to laugh. They don’t take life too seriously, and they understand the importance of having a good sense of humor.

26. They Have a Sense of Adventure

Happy people have a sense of adventure and make an effort to explore the world around them. They’re always looking for new experiences and ways to grow and learn.

27. They Set Boundaries

Genuinely happy people understand the importance of setting boundaries. They’re willing to stand up for themselves and make sure that their needs are being met.

28. They’re Forgiving

Happy people are forgiving and understand that mistakes are part of life. They don’t hold grudges, and they make an effort to let go of the negative and focus on the positive.

29. They Have a Growth Mindset

Happy people understand that growth is an essential part of life. They’re always looking for ways to grow and learn, and they embrace failure as an opportunity for growth.

30. They Live with Purpose

Genuinely happy people have a sense of purpose and know what they want out of life. They’re passionate about their work and strive to make a difference in the world.

Latest Studies and Statistics on Happiness

Happiness is a subjective concept, but there have been numerous studies and surveys conducted to measure it. According to the World Happiness Report, Finland is the happiest country in the world, followed by Denmark, Norway, Iceland, and the Netherlands. The report also found that the United States ranked 19th in the world for happiness.

In terms of the happiest cities in the world, Zurich, Vienna, and Munich top the list, according to the 2019 Global Liveability Index. The study found that these cities had the highest quality of life in terms of safety, health care, education, infrastructure, and other factors.

Other studies have looked at the characteristics of genuinely happy people. One study conducted by the University of California, San Diego found that people who possess the characteristics outlined above tend to report higher levels of life satisfaction and happiness.

Happiness is something we all strive for, but it can be hard to achieve. But understanding the characteristics of genuinely happy people can help us get one step closer to a life of contentment. From living in the moment to practicing self-care and gratitude, these 30 characteristics can help us make the most of every moment and live a truly happy life.