How to Be Happy? 7 Daily Habits That Actually Work

Happiness often feels like something we need to chase — a promotion, a bigger house, or a once-in-a-lifetime trip. But the truth is, long-term happiness is built on small, repeatable habits you practice every day. By focusing on the things you can control, and making small adjustments to your lifestyle, you can dramatically improve your mood, energy, and sense of wellbeing.

In this guide, we’ll explore seven simple habits proven to boost happiness, plus one powerful lifestyle change that can transform your commute into a source of joy.

1. Cut Negativity Out of Your Life

Facing criticism from all sides: a character stands anxious amidst a sea of disapproval.

Negativity drains energy and blocks happiness. Between endless news cycles, social media comparison, and workplace stress, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. The first step toward happiness is protecting your mental space.

• Limit exposure to the news. Stay informed, but don’t consume constant negativity.

• Unfollow toxic accounts. Social media should inspire you, not drain you.

• Focus only on what you can control. Worrying about things outside your power only fuels anxiety.

When you actively choose positivity, you free up mental bandwidth for things that genuinely matter.

2. Move Your Body Every Day

A group of friends enjoy a vibrant morning run along the sun-drenched beach, embracing the refreshing sea breeze.

Exercise is one of the most effective happiness boosters. It doesn’t have to be intense — even 20 minutes of movement can release endorphins (the “happy hormones”) and reduce cortisol (the stress hormone).

Walking, yoga, cycling, or swimming can all improve mood. The key is consistency. Instead of treating exercise as a chore, weave it into your lifestyle.

And one of the easiest ways to guarantee daily movement? Turn your commute into a workout.

3. Cycle to Work and Transform Your Commute

A cyclist in smart casual attire rides swiftly through the city streets on a vintage-style bicycle, showcasing seamless urban mobility.

Most of us spend hours each week stuck in traffic or crammed onto public transport — not exactly happiness-inducing experiences. But what if your commute could actually make you feel better?

Cycling to work has countless benefits:

• Burns calories and strengthens your heart.

• Reduces stress and clears your head before and after work.

• Releases endorphins that naturally lift your mood.

• Saves money on fuel and parking.

  
  

If you live in Perth, cycling is easier than you think. At WEDGETAIL Bikes, we make it simple to swap the car for an e-bike with affordable long-term rentals starting at just a few dollars per day. You get the freedom of cycling without the big upfront cost of buying a bike.

Whether you’re commuting daily, heading to uni, or just exploring Perth’s bike paths, renting an e-bike is a smart, stress-free way to build happiness into your routine.

4. Practice Gratitude Daily

Embracing tranquility at sunset, a person meditates by the sea, finding peace in the gentle glow of the setting sun.

Happiness grows when you focus on what you already have. Practicing gratitude trains your brain to notice the positives instead of the negatives.

Try this simple daily habit:

• Each morning or evening, write down 3 things you’re grateful for.

• Keep it small — a good cup of coffee, a text from a friend, or a beautiful sunset.

• Revisit your gratitude list on tough days for an instant lift.

Gratitude rewires your perspective and makes happiness more accessible.

5. Feed Your Mind With Audiobooks or Podcasts

Exploring stories through sound: A stack of books with bright red headphones symbolizes the world of audiobooks.

What you listen to shapes how you think. Instead of filling your commute with stress, fill it with ideas that inspire you.

Audiobooks and podcasts are perfect for learning new skills, exploring different perspectives, or simply enjoying a good story. You’ll arrive at work feeling sharper, motivated, and more positive.

Pair this with a cycling commute, and suddenly you’re feeding both your body and your mind every day.

6. Build Better Connections

A joyful group of silhouetted figures hold hands against a vibrant sunset, reflected in the calm water below, symbolising unity and togetherness.

Humans are wired for connection. Studies consistently show that strong social relationships are the biggest predictor of long-term happiness.

• Prioritise time with family and friends.

• Say yes to shared experiences over material purchases.

• Seek out communities (like cycling groups or fitness classes) that share your interests.

Even a short chat with a colleague or neighbor can brighten your mood. Happiness spreads through connection.

7. Spend More Time Outdoors

Cyclists enjoying a scenic ride along a rugged trail at sunset, surrounded by lush greenery and dramatic rock formations.

Nature has a powerful effect on happiness. Sunlight boosts serotonin and vitamin D, while green spaces calm the nervous system. Spending just 20–30 minutes outside daily can lower stress and increase feelings of wellbeing.

Cycling outdoors doubles the benefit — you get exercise and exposure to nature. Perth is blessed with stunning bike paths, from Kings Park to Cottesloe Beach, and exploring them on an e-bike is an instant mood booster.

Final Thought: Happiness Is in Your Hands

Happiness isn’t something you have to wait for — it’s something you can build, starting today. By cutting negativity, moving your body, practicing gratitude, and making your commute healthier with cycling, you’ll notice your mood shift in powerful ways.

And if you’re ready to make that shift, WEDGETAIL Bikes is here to help. With Perth’s biggest fleet of long-term e-bike and scooter rentals, we make it simple to start cycling without the hassle of buying.

Ready to try happiness on two wheels? [Check out WEDGETAIL Bike rentals today.]