Neha Lalchandani explains what university students do differently to make them as happy as a lark.

Ever wondered what’s the secret to high productivity levels? The answer, according to a research study done by the University of Warwick, is in fact… the feeling of happiness.

My ring tone is set to the song “Happy” by Pharrell Williams. It’s impossible to not smile when this song plays and I must say that having gone through 3/4 of my time at university, this, combined with the other habits below, brings about a happy, productive and enjoyable university life.

1. Follow the PAR rule: Plan, Achieve, Reward

It’s always good to begin each day with a list of things you need and want to accomplish. Set realistic goals and remember the divide and conquer rule of breaking down large tasks into several smaller parts so it feels manageable and not overwhelming. And most importantly, remember to reward yourself for all the hard work you’ve put in to execute a phenomenal job!

2. Avoid procrastination, but take meaningful breaks

Develop strategies that help you resist being hindered by procrastination, even if means logging out of all social networking accounts while you’re doing an assessment, for instance. On the other hand, having a cuppa with a friend or going for a walk as part of taking breaks between study blocks helps the brain process studied information and maintain the right levels of concentration.

3. Maintain a hobby that you love

Many students tend to give up on their hobbies after entering university and this tends to keep them away from what they enjoy doing most. Allocate your non-study time to do something that you love and you’ll find it to be therapeutic and fulfilling.

4. When stressed, ask for help

When you’re feeling down about something, it’s always comforting to talk to someone reliable about your problems. They might not be able to fix things in a jiffy but can perhaps do something to cheer you up and provide support. Seek out the UON counselling services for any dilemmas you may be facing while at university.

5. Take care of yourself

Make sure you are tending to the three basics for good health and well being which include a nutritious diet, physical exercise and enough sleep. All these three factors have impacts on your mood and energy levels and can prime your body and brain to be well nourished, invigorated and focused. Establishing a routine will greatly help and also create some sense of sanity.

6. Spend enough time outdoors

Vitamin D production occurs from exposure to sunlight, low levels of which are linked to depression. As little as 15 minutes of sunlight exposure can contribute to long-term mood elevation. Try having lunch outdoors, play a sport, read a book or study in the garden to let fresh air into your lungs and sunlight fall on your face and you’ll realise how much of a difference it makes.

7. Balance, baby!

Figure out your priorities and develop the right balance in your life. Personal goal achieving, social relationships and extracurricular activities are all important university elements. It is important to make sure that you don’t over commit yourself to just one thing to the point where it starts to negatively impact other areas of your life.

Once you embrace healthy habits that will keep your mood elevated, you’ll find that you’re adopting a happy mindset that will support your emotional wellness and allow you to get through your degree all smiles!

Image: thephotographymuse, Flickr, no changes made.