Even the happiest people may not be full of joy every moment of every day – everyone goes through tough times. But we do know that tough times make us better, stronger and more resilient people. The Bible tells us “Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything” (James 1:2-4, NIV)

Staying resilient and persevering through hard times is easier for people that are happier, and interestingly, the things that help improve resilience are the same things that help increase happiness.

Doing a few small things each day can help increase your happiness and resilience in life:

• Help other people

• Build relationships and connections with other people

• Be grateful for what you have

• Focus on the positives rather than the negative

• Be a part of something bigger than yourself – find meaning in your life

To quote a great professor, (Dumbledore) “Happiness can be found, even in the darkest of times, if one only remembers to turn on the light.” (J.K. Rowling, Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban)