Can You Train Your Brain to Be Happier?
- psych mechanics
- May 16
- 2 min read
What If Happiness Is a Skill?
Have you ever wondered why some people stay calm and positive even during hard times? Is it just their personality — or is there something more?
Research studies show that you can train your brain to be happier. Just like you can build muscles at the gym, you can build a happier mindset with the right habits.
So how do we do that? The science behind it is - Neuroplasticity !!
Your brain isn’t fixed. It changes and adapts based on what you do, think, and feel every day. This ability is called neuroplasticity — and it means your brain can “rewire” itself. Say, for example, when I wanted to change my car and was interested in a particular model, I started finding that model of car every single day!!!! I wasn’t actively searching for it. My brain started focusing on and registering that model more !!
Likewise. if you often focus on stress, your brain becomes good at finding stress. But if you train it to focus on gratitude, joy, or kindness, those pathways get stronger.
I spoke of the PERMA model in my previous blog as outlined by Seligman. Each of those aspects can be nurtured — one small step at a time.
TRY THIS if you are interested. I learnt this when I was doing the course on “The Science of Happiness “ ( during COVID) offered by Yale University.
7-Day Brain Training Challenge
Day 1: Write down 3 things you’re grateful for
Day 2: Do one small act of kindness
Day 3: Spend 30 minutes doing something you love
Day 4: Text or call someone just to appreciate them
Day 5: Reflect on a moment when you felt proud
Day 6: Go for a short walk and notice something beautiful
Day 7: Write about a personal strength you’ve used recently
So… Can You Really Become Happier?
Yes — not overnight, but step by step. Happiness isn’t about ignoring problems or always smiling. It’s about choosing habits, thoughts, and relationships that lift you up instead of pulling you down.
Your brain is listening to what you practice every day.
So why not practice a little joy?
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