According To Science, The Key To Being Happy Is Being Creative

What makes you happy?

Personally, I enjoy sitting on the couch, binge watching “Downton Abbey.” Some people like to go to the gym, hang out with friends, sleep, eat, play with their puppy, etc.

Needless to say, there isn’t just one specific thing we all do to be happy.

But, maybe there should be!

It turns out, the key to being happy is using your brain more. Specifically speaking, the right side of your brain. You know, the side that holds your creativity, insight, and imagination? Yes! That’s what you need to be engaging more of, if you want a happy life!

Who would’ve thought?

This information comes from a study in the Journal of Positive Psychology (so, you know it's legit).

658 young adults volunteered to take part in this “13-day daily diary study.” Each day, they were asked to document exactly how much time they spent on creative activities, and the effects those activities had on them.

From this information, researchers found a direct correlation between creative activities and happiness.

“Our research suggests that everyday creative activity leads to increased well-being in young adults. People felt more enthusiasm and higher flourishing following days when they were more creative than normal,” the researchers of this study wrote.

So, basically if you want a happy life, you need to be more creative! 

This doesn’t mean you have to be the next Beethoven or Picasso! Granted, if you do play the piano or paint, it would be wise to stick with it.

All you have to do is something that engages the right side of your brain. Doodle, journal, grow a garden, redecorate your living room. Whatever you want! I’m sure there are a ton of ideas on Pinterest. Pinterest is amazing.

As long as you're being creative, you can really do anything. 

It's not necessarily about being the best, creatively. It's about doing something that engages the right side of your brain!

So, even if you don't have the skills of Picasso, paint a picture - you don't have to show anyone if it comes out horrible. You're doing this for you, and you only!

Now, go and live a more creative and happy life!