10 Good Mental Health Habits for a Happy Life

As humans, we have the most developed minds in the known universe. It’s capable of extraordinary things – creativity, problem-solving, deep empathy, and complex reasoning.

Yet, despite all this, we don’t fully understand our minds. It’s a mystery we might never be able to solve completely, and that’s okay.

But what isn’t okay is how we often overlook the very thing that makes us who we are, our mental health.

In today’s fast-paced world, everything seems to be speeding up. The demands of life are never-ending, and we’re always juggling responsibilities, chasing deadlines, and trying to keep up with them.

And while we’re busy doing all of this, something crucial is quietly taking a backseat: our mental health.

Yes, we’ve come a long way in having open conversations about mental health. People are talking about it more than ever before, and that’s a good thing.

But even with these conversations, many of us still don’t fully grasp just how important good mental health is. It’s easy to get caught up in the hustle and forget that our mental well-being is the foundation for everything we do.

Without it, everything else starts to crumble.

Although a lot of factors play a part in mental health like genetics, family history, and life circumstances and experiences that we can’t control.

But most mental health problems today are happening not just because of these factors but because of the way we live our lives.

life is good happy life good mental health — Photo by René Porter on Unsplash

Our lifestyle, something we do have control over, is often the biggest contributor to our mental health struggles.

Think about it. We’re constantly bombarded with information, expectations, and pressure. We rarely take the time to pause, breathe, and just be.

Our lives are filled with distractions and self-care often feels like a luxury rather than a necessity. But it doesn’t have to be this way.

We can significantly improve our mental health by being a little more mindful in our everyday lives and developing some good habits.

And that’s what we’re going to discuss in this blog.

We’ll talk about some simple and practical habits that can help you take better care of your mental health, so you can live a happier and peaceful life.

Because at the end of the day, good mental health isn’t just important, it’s essential. It’s the foundation upon which everything else is built.

So let’s not allow it to take a backseat anymore. Let’s give it the attention it deserves, starting right now.

What Are Positive Mental Health Habits?

Positive mental health habits are simple routines and actions we can take every day to keep our minds healthy and strong.

These habits are the building blocks of a healthy mind that can help us navigate life’s ups and downs with resilience and live life more fully.

Just like we take care of our bodies by eating well and exercising, we take care of our mental health and overall well-being through these positive habits.

With the fast pace of modern life, we generally forget about our mental health. But when we make a point to develop good mental health habits, we create a strong foundation that helps us handle whatever comes our way.

Why Are Good Mental Health Habits So Important?

Think about it, how many things do we do every day to take care of our physical health? We brush our teeth, eat a well-balanced meal, exercise, etc. but do we do any such thing for our mental health?

We mostly focus on taking care of our bodies and forget about the importance of taking care of our mental well-being.

This ignorance can affect every aspect of our lives and has a ripple effect on everything we do. We start experiencing stress, anxiety, and overwhelm which can lead to problems like fatigue, headache, or even more serious conditions.

But it’s not just our health that’s impacted, our relationships, work, and overall happiness can suffer too.

It also affects those around us because our moods and energy levels influence how we interact with others.

On the other hand, good mental health habits can bring significant positive changes in our lives. They can help us sleep better, help us start our day with a clear mind and a positive outlook, and handle challenges better.

The best part is that these habits are simple to start and are accessible to everyone. They don’t require any expensive tools or training, just a commitment to prioritize your mental well-being.

How to Be Mentally Healthy and Happy?

Mental health and happiness are deeply connected. When your mind is in a good place, it becomes easier to be happy in life’s everyday moments.

Being mentally healthy doesn’t mean you’ll never face challenges or difficult times, but it does mean you’ll have the tools to handle them in a way that keeps you balanced and grounded.

Happiness, in many ways, is a byproduct of good mental health. Having good mental health means you’re creating room for positive emotions to flourish.

So, how do you start building a mentally healthy lifestyle?

Well, by following the good mental health habits that we’re going to discuss in the next section.

10 Good Mental Health Habits for a Happy and Simple Life

Now that we know mental health and happiness are connected, let’s look at the habits that can help us cultivate them.

Building a mentally healthy lifestyle isn’t about making huge and overwhelming changes all at once.

Instead, it’s about incorporating small, intentional habits into your daily routines that support your well-being and make life a little simpler and more joyful.

Let’s explore 10 good mental health habits that can help you lead a happier, more balanced life.

1. Practice Mindfulness

Practicing mindfulness is the best thing you can do for your mental health. A lot of the stress we carry comes from our minds being stuck in the past or worrying about the future.

We often replay old memories or stress over things that haven’t even happened yet, which builds up tension and anxiety over time.

The more your thoughts drift away from the present moment, the more overwhelmed you feel.

This is where mindfulness comes in.

It will help you learn how to focus on the present moment, on what’s happening right now rather than getting lost in thoughts about the past or future.

The practice of mindfulness will help you break the cycle of worry and stress, giving your mind a much-needed break from all that overthinking.

When you’re mindful, you develop the ability to notice your thoughts without getting caught up in them. This helps you stay calm, focused, and more engaged with what’s happening around you.

It doesn’t mean you’ll never feel stressed again, but mindfulness gives you the tools to manage stress better and live with more peace and happiness.

Some blogs on mindfulness:

2. Practice Gratitude

Another good mental health habit for a happy life is practicing gratitude. A big part of the stress we experience daily comes from comparing ourselves to others.

Social media is the main culprit behind this because we see the perfectly curated lives of others, which makes us think that we don’t have enough.

Over time, this mindset becomes a habit, and we start focusing more on what we lack rather than appreciating what we have.

The truth is, nobody has everything. Even those who seem to “have it all” face their own challenges and limitations.

There are countless things that money can’t buy like love, health, and peace of mind. No one’s life is perfect, and chasing the idea of having more than others will only lead to frustration.

This is where gratitude comes into play. Gratitude is the practice that will teach you how to focus on the things you do have instead of the ones you don’t.

If you’re reading this on your phone or computer, that alone is something to be thankful for. Gratitude reminds us that we already have plenty to be happy about.

It’s a very simple yet powerful way to train your mind to focus on the positive aspects so you can lead a peaceful and happy life.

Here are some blogs on gratitude to help you understand this concept in detail:

3. Journaling

The next good mental health habit is journaling, which is one of the most effective tools for improving your mental health.

It gives you a safe place to unload whatever’s on your mind, almost like having a personal therapist you can turn to whenever you need.

You can write about anything – how someone or something made you feel, your future plans, your goals, or just random thoughts. It’s a great way to process emotions and gain a clearer perspective.

But journaling isn’t just for emotional release. It helps you stay organized and focused too.

You can track your goals, document your progress, and plan your days more efficiently. It adds structure and purpose to your life, making it easier to stay on top of things.

In many ways, journaling is like a personal growth tool that helps you improve mentally, emotionally, and even in terms of productivity.

Both of us recently started journaling, and we can honestly say it’s made a positive difference in our lives. It’s now part of our daily routine that keeps us grounded, focused, and aligned with our goals.

If you’re ready to start journaling, we’ve created our own Mindful Living Digital Journal.

It is a daily planner and tracker designed to help you practice mindfulness, gratitude, affirmations, and self-care while staying organized and moving forward.

If you’re looking to buy one for yourself, we invite you to check out our journal.

Related blogs on journaling:

4. Find Your Purpose and Work on It Every Day

One of the most powerful habits for maintaining good mental health and living a happy life is finding your purpose and working towards it consistently.

Life can sometimes feel aimless without purpose which can cause problems like stress and anxiety. When you know what truly matters to you and gives meaning to your life, everything starts to feel more balanced.

Having a clear sense of direction builds a strong foundation for your mental well-being and gives you a reason to get up in the morning.

In Japanese culture, there’s a concept called Ikigai, which means “a reason for being.”

It’s the idea that fulfillment comes when what you love, what you’re good at, what the world needs, and what you can be paid for all come together.

While finding your Ikigai may take time, it’s incredibly rewarding. It’s about discovering what makes you feel alive, what gives you joy, and what you’re passionate about.

To find your Ikigai, think about the things you enjoy doing and that give you a sense of accomplishment. Then, ask yourself how you can incorporate that into your life more often.

It doesn’t always have to be tied to your job, your purpose can be found in hobbies, helping others, or personal growth. Once you know your purpose, make it a priority to work on it every day, even if it’s just in small ways.

Set small and long-term goals around that purpose so that you have something to aim for.

Even if your current job or situation is not aligned with your purpose, having something to work towards will boost your mental health and happiness.

This habit isn’t about changing your life overnight. It’s about finding that one thing that brings you joy and incorporating it into your daily routine.

With purpose in your life, you’ll feel more positive, focused, and mentally balanced, which will naturally lead to a happier and simpler life.

The next and very important habit for good mental health and a happy life is building positive social connections. As human beings, we are naturally social and our relationships play a huge role in how we feel in our everyday life.

Strong and healthy connections give us emotional support, a sense of belonging, and a way to share meaningful experiences. These connections are very important for both our mental well-being and happiness.

To maintain good mental health, focus on nurturing relationships with people who uplift and support you. Whether it’s your family, friends, or coworkers, the bonds you create with others can make a real difference in your life.

Spend quality time with those who matter, have meaningful conversations, and be present when you’re with them. Be a good listener and stay emotionally available to deepen these connections.

At the same time, it’s equally important to surround yourself with positive influences. Be open to meeting new people who share your values and interests.

Join groups or communities that resonate with you because it can enhance your mental health by helping you feel more connected and understood.

Positive social connections don’t just improve your mood, they reduce stress, provide emotional security, and contribute to a more joyful and balanced life.

By investing time and energy into the relationships that matter, you’re building a support system that keeps you mentally strong and happy.

6. Live a Healthy Lifestyle

Living a healthy lifestyle is one of the best things you can do for both your mental and physical well-being.

This habit includes three main areas that you need to focus on – regular exercise or any physical activity of your choice, eating a healthy and well-balanced diet, and getting good quality and adequate sleep every day.

These three things work together to keep your body and mind in great shape.

First, exercise isn’t just about keeping fit, it’s a major stress reliever. When you move your body, whether through a workout, a sport, or a simple walk, it helps reduce anxiety, lifts your mood, and gives you a mental boost.

The trick to be consistent with your exercise routine is to find something you actually enjoy. You might prefer going for a hike, dancing, or even doing yoga.

Whatever it is, choose an activity that makes you feel good, and it won’t feel like a chore. When you enjoy the exercise you’re doing, it becomes much easier to make it a lasting habit.

Next, eating a healthy and well-balanced diet is very important for keeping both your body and mind functioning at their best.

When you fuel your body with wholesome foods like fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, you’ll have more energy and think more clearly.

A poor diet on the other hand that consists of simple carbs, sugar, and oily and fried foods will make you feel more sluggish and unmotivated.

While you shouldn’t completely give up your favorite foods, you should go for healthier choices most of the time and treat yourself with them occasionally.

Over time, you’ll notice that making better food choices will make you feel happier and more balanced, both physically and mentally.

Finally, try to get enough good quality sleep every day as part of living a healthy lifestyle. When you’re well-rested, you’re more patient, clear-headed, and better able to handle life’s challenges.

Create a night routine that can help you relax and also improve your quality of sleep.

Whether it’s reading a book, taking a warm bath, or practicing relaxation techniques, creating a habit of prioritizing sleep will do wonders for your mental health.

Social media and technology play a huge role in our daily lives in this technologically advanced and fast-paced world. While they offer convenience and entertainment, they can also lead to unhealthy habits and negative emotions.

Social media, in particular, makes us constantly compare ourselves with others which makes us feel inadequate.

We scroll through perfectly curated posts and think we don’t have enough as compared to those around us and our lives are not as happening as theirs.

Beyond social media, technology has taken over our lives in other ways too.

Instead of spending quality time with real people, we often end up glued to our screens, binge-watching Netflix, or endlessly scrolling through our phones.

While it’s fine to enjoy these things occasionally, too much screen time can isolate us from real-life connections and experiences.

It can make us lose sight of what truly matters—meaningful relationships, being present, and taking care of our mental and physical health.

That’s why it’s important to limit your use of technology and practice regular digital detoxes. Technology should improve your life, not control it.

Take time to unplug, step away from the screen, and reconnect with the world around you. Use this time to focus on your hobbies, spend time with loved ones, or simply be mindful of the present moment.

By setting boundaries with your devices, you’ll find more balance in life, and it will help you nurture healthier habits.

A digital detox helps you reset and realize that life offline is rich with experiences that foster real joy and personal growth.

8. Stay Connected to the Natural World

We’re all a part of this planet and it is very important for our mental and physical well-being to stay connected with Mother Nature.

We live very busy and tech-filled lives and we generally forget how important it is to spend time outdoors.

Nature has a very calming and grounding effect on our minds and bodies that helps us feel more present and in tune with the world around us.

Make it a habit to be in nature as much as you can. You don’t have to plan big trips to the mountains or forests. You can start by visiting a local park, walking barefoot on the grass, or simply taking a stroll in your neighborhood.

The simple act of feeling the earth beneath your feet or listening to the rustling of leaves can do wonders for your mental health. These small actions can make a big difference.

Nature has the power to clear your mind, reduce stress, and bring a sense of peace that’s hard to find indoors.

If you live in a city or don’t have easy access to parks, you can still stay connected with nature in smaller ways. Spend time with your plants at home or on your balcony.

Tending to plants or even just sitting with them for a few minutes each day can give you that much-needed connection to the natural world.

The act of caring for a living thing can also remind you of the interconnectedness of life and help you feel more grounded.

Spending time in nature is not just about physical health, it’s a way to reconnect with yourself and the planet.

Whether it’s a daily walk outside, gardening, or just sitting in a quiet outdoor space, being in nature can refresh your mind and soul.

So, make it a point to step outside, breathe in fresh air, and reconnect with the earth around you. The benefits are endless.

9. Practice Self-Care

Self-care is about being mindful of your physical, emotional, and mental needs, and taking deliberate actions to nurture them. It’s a way of reminding yourself that your health and happiness are important.

When you prioritize self-care, you create space in your life to rest and recharge which makes it easier to manage the stress and challenges that come your way.

Self-care doesn’t have to be complicated. It can be as simple as taking a few moments each day, or when needed, to relax and unwind.

You might enjoy reading a book, listening to music, or taking a warm bath to help your body and mind relax. These small acts of care are a great way to recharge and keep your stress levels in check.

The key is to regularly do things that make you feel good and give you a sense of peace.

Another important part of self-care is doing things that bring you joy. Whether it’s indulging in your favorite treat, watching a movie you love, or spending time with friends, make time for activities that make you happy.

These moments of joy help you stay emotionally balanced and can boost your mood in the long run.

Taking care of yourself also means paying attention to your body’s needs. This could involve staying active, eating nourishing food, or getting enough sleep.

Your body needs regular care just as much as your mind does, so make sure you give it the attention it deserves.

By making self-care a habit, you’ll not only feel more balanced and refreshed, but you’ll also improve your mental health.

When you feel good, you’re better equipped to face life’s challenges with resilience and positivity.

Related blogs on self-care:

10. Make Time for Hobbies and Creative Activities

An essential part of living a balanced and fulfilling life is to make time and engage in hobbies and creative activities. Hobbies give you time and space to explore your passion, relax, and break away from the daily grind.

It could be dancing, cooking, sketching or painting, or playing any instrument of your liking. Doing such activities that you love can do wonders for your mental health and overall happiness.

Creative activities help you express yourself and tap into your imagination. They offer a great outlet to channel stress and recharge your mind.

When you set aside time to do things that bring you joy, you give yourself a break from the demands of everyday life.

You need to understand that hobbies don’t have to be time-consuming or perfect, they just need to be something you genuinely enjoy.

Hobbies give you the freedom to experiment and learn without pressure, helping you grow personally in ways that feel rewarding.

If you’re not sure where to start, think about activities you’ve always wanted to try or things that make you feel energized and fulfilled.

Even if you only have a few minutes a day, dedicating that time to your creative side can make a big difference in your well-being.

What Is a Mentally Healthy Life?

A mentally healthy life is all about balance, self-awareness, and emotional well-being. It means taking care of your mind the same way you take care of your body.

Just like physical health, mental health requires regular effort and attention. Living a mentally healthy life involves managing stress, maintaining positive relationships, and staying connected to your emotions.

One of the key aspects of a mentally healthy life is self-awareness. This means understanding how you feel, recognizing when something is off, and knowing what you need to do to get back on track.

It’s about being in tune with your emotions and taking the necessary steps to manage them in a healthy way.

Another important part of mental health is managing stress effectively. Most of us live a very fast-paced and hectic life so it becomes very important for us to learn to handle stress in a healthy way.

It could be through practicing mindfulness, setting boundaries, or finding healthy outlets like exercise or hobbies.

A mentally healthy life also means fostering positive relationships. Surrounding yourself with supportive, caring people who lift you up plays a big role in your mental well-being.

At the same time, it’s equally important to limit yourself from being exposed to toxic relationships that can cause you unnecessary stress or drain all your energy.

Lastly, living a mentally healthy life is about being happy in your everyday life, and being kind to yourself. It’s not about having it all together all the time, but about taking small steps toward a happier, more balanced life.

Wrapping Up – How Mentally Healthy People Live Happy Life

I’m sure you’d agree that we often don’t give our mental health the same attention we give our physical health.

We have so many tests and check-ups to ensure our bodies are working well, but we tend to overlook the signs that our mental health is suffering.

Yet, our mental well-being is just as important and plays a huge role in how we experience life.

In today’s fast-paced world, it’s more important than ever to take care of our minds. Stress, pressure, and everyday struggles can weigh heavily on us, and if we don’t look after our mental health, we’ll feel overwhelmed.

Each one of us deserves to live our best life, but that’s only possible if we take care of our mental and emotional well-being.

While many things can affect our mental health that are outside our control, there are plenty of things we can control.

You don’t need to change everything overnight, just start with a few good mental habits that resonate with you, and see how they can gradually transform your outlook, your mood, and your happiness.

At the end of the day, life is only truly beautiful when we’re healthy in both body and mind.

If you have any other tips or suggestions on how to improve mental well-being, we’d love to hear from you! Feel free to share your thoughts in the comments. Namaste!

FAQs – Good Mental Health Habits

Daily Habits to Improve Mental Health

Incorporate simple habits like practicing gratitude, getting enough sleep, exercising regularly, and limiting social media use.

Building positive social connections and spending time in nature also play a vital role in improving mental well-being.

These daily habits that we’ve covered in this blog can significantly improve your mental health over time.

Bad Mental Health Habits

Neglecting self-care, overuse of social media, avoiding exercise, and bottling up emotions are common bad mental health habits.

Ignoring these habits can lead to stress and anxiety. It’s important to understand and replace them with positive mental health practices.

Activities to Improve Mental Health

Engaging in hobbies and creative activities, spending time outdoors, and practicing mindfulness are great ways to nurture your mental health.

Simple activities like reading, journaling, and regular exercise can also help maintain emotional balance and mental clarity.

What Are Different Ways to Improve Mental Health?

From practicing self-care and mindfulness to fostering positive social connections and regular exercise, there are several ways to improve mental health.

As we’ve discussed in this blog, small and manageable habits can make all the difference in your overall well-being over time.

Signs of Good Mental Health

Good mental health is reflected in your emotional resilience, balanced mood, ability to handle stress, and positive relationships.

When you feel content, maintain a healthy lifestyle, and have good coping mechanisms, these are signs your mental health is in a good state.

Healthy Habits for Mental Health PDF

To help you incorporate healthy habits, our Mindful Living Digital Planner is available in PDF format.

It can be used in the Goodnotes app and is designed to support daily mindfulness, goal setting, and overall mental well-being. It’s a handy tool for nurturing a balanced lifestyle.

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10 Good Mental Health Habits for a Happy Life

Table of Contents

What Are Positive Mental Health Habits?

Why Are Good Mental Health Habits So Important?

How to Be Mentally Healthy and Happy?