8 ways to improve your happiness

- By Andre Thompson, Postgraduate Middlesex Student

Studying can be challenging, especially when workloads and conflicting responsibilities pile up. It becomes easier to forget to look after yourself. However, understanding that looking after yourself will allow you to be more effective in your studies and beyond is key to your success.

The first step to improving your happiness and wellbeing is to make the conscious decision to do so. It’s not always as easy as having one thing that makes you happy, so we've put together a whole list to help you look out for number one, you!

	Do a good deed Help a friend, help your family, help someone in need. Middlesex students volunteer at the MDXSU Soup Kitchen for the homeless, and there are thousands of things to do on websites like do-it.org. You could even try helping out your friends with their work, which can be helpful for your own learning as well as boosting your happiness levels.

	Get active Take up a sport or go for a run! Exercising has a direct impact on your mental health and can give you more energy too. Try and put aside some time every day to engage in any type of activity, even if it’s just a walk.

	Be grateful It’s easy to take the small things for granted, especially when it comes to routine tasks, so at the end of the day take a moment to reflect and write down a few things you are grateful / thankful for. Strong relationships with your family and friends shouldn’t be taken for granted, make time for the people that matter most to you.

	Studying isn’t everything Yes, studying is important, but don’t let it define or consume you. Keep it in perspective, your life outside your study is important too. You often learn a lot of life skills outside the classroom especially if you are doing something that you really enjoy. Take some time out, listen to some good music with some friends!

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	Be self aware Be very aware of where you are emotionally, as soon as you feel like you’re starting to struggle, you’re not yourself or you’re starting to think negative thoughts: take action! Often talking through your struggles is a good way to figure out how to overcome them. Which leads perfectly on to…

	Eat healthy & eat well Don’t forget the most important meal of the day. Making time in the mornings for breakfast is important to fuel yourself for the day ahead. Eating healthy is important for your concentration and memory among other things. Get the best out of your meals - get the best out of your study.

	Sleep well Try your best to prioritise sleep; don’t sacrifice it if you can help it. Sleep improves your memory, focus and well-being. If you’re sacrificing sleep, you may need to re-priorities and refine your activities during the week.

	You’re a survivor You made it this far, you’ve overcome challenges, you’re a fighter and a survivor, acknowledge your accomplishments and give them the credit they deserve.