Just yesterday, after a long day at work, I went downstairs to buy a coffee to wake myself up. As I left the coffee shop, I glanced up and saw a streak of red and yellow light hanging between the skyscrapers—the setting sun. Its light reflected off the buildings, it was absolutely beautiful. This unexpected beauty instantly soothed me. Everyone longs for happiness and joy, but in reality, a happy life is in our own hands.
Every day is precious, and time is irreversible. Therefore, I want to share 20 things you must do for yourself, things that can bring you more "small but certain happiness" in the present and future.

1. Maintain a genuine smile

Always smile, no matter the moment. A smile brings you closer to others, softens problems, and brightens your mood. Like a sunflower, you attract more sunshine and positive energy.

2. Help others

If you can help someone or know a better way, do so. The more you help others, the more they will help you. Love and kindness beget love and kindness—a virtuous cycle. Helping others makes you happy, their grateful eyes and words make you feel valuable and empowered.

3. Learn a skill

In your free time, instead of wasting it, cultivate a beneficial hobby. These can be the spice and color of everyday life. For example, painting, singing, learning a musical instrument, or swimming. In these seemingly useless little things, we can better express ourselves and experience the beauty and small joys of life.

4. Cook for yourself

Studies have shown that cooking can reduce anxiety and irritability, boost confidence, and increase happiness. Try making yourself breakfast first, and gradually begin to enjoy the pleasure it brings. You can also share your meals with those around you, or post them on social media to receive praise and recognition – that too is a form of happiness.

5. Spend time with people of different ages

Spend time with seniors over 70 or children under 6. You'll find you can gain more life wisdom from the elderly, and the joyful interactions with children can briefly rekindle your long-lost childlike innocence.

6. Drink more water

Drink plenty of water, water is essential for health. It not only promotes metabolism but is also quite helpful in relieving stress. Only when you're healthy will you be in a good mood.

7. Read more

Sometimes, the more you play on your phone, the more excited you become, to the point that you unknowingly stay up late, seriously disrupting your rest. Reading not only helps with sleep but also allows you to make better use of your time, enriching and expanding your life. Reading is the lowest-cost way to improve yourself. In books, we can see worlds we've never seen before, hear stories we've never heard before, and gain different life experiences. Making reading a regular part of life is one of the most beautiful habits.

8. Exercise

No matter how busy or tired you are, try to get moving. It doesn't necessarily have to be at the gym, there are other ways to exercise. Take a walk after meals, do some push-ups at home; take the stairs instead of the elevator; cycle instead of taxis for short trips; stand and walk more, lie down less; go for a run or play badminton after get off work, and go hiking or swimming with friends on weekends. When you're physically fit, you'll be better able to face stress.

9. Regularly clean your home

When you're feeling down, instead of overthinking, take immediate action and give your home a thorough cleaning. Wash and store out-of-season clothes, and get rid of unnecessary items. Keep dust and trash away, arrange things neatly, and make sure your house is clean and bright, even if it's not big. Living in such an environment will make you feel refreshed and comfortable.

10. Call your parents

When you encounter setbacks in life, call your parents and chat. This seemingly insignificant conversation allows you to feel the warmth of family even when you're far away. Of course, more importantly, visit your parents often.

11. Connect with Friends

Take a moment to greet and care for friends you haven't seen in a while. It could be a video call, a phone call, or even just a few short messages. When you show someone you care and miss, it not only touches their heart but also makes you happy.

12. Record Happy Little Things

Starting today, write down two small things that make you happy each day. Even if it's just someone complimenting your outfit or you slept well one night. We're used to focusing on our troubles and sadness, so we often feel life is terrible. Remember the small, beautiful, and warm moments, and you'll find that happiness is hidden in the everyday.

13. Treat Yourself

On special occasions, when you're feeling down, treat yourself. On less-than-ideal days, learn to find a reason to be happy. If no one loves you, remember to love yourself. Pleasing yourself is the happiest thing.

14. Forget Some Things

Those people, memories, and experiences that make you sad and cause you pain are better left forgotten. The first step to forgetting is learning to let go. Discard your worries so you can make room for flowers and roses.

15. Travel Regularly

When life gets tiring, go for a walk. A trip is enough to heal a long-dormant heart. Experience different scenery, go to unfamiliar cities and street corners, watch the sunrise and sunset. You'll discover that there are still many things in this world worth looking forward to, and many beautiful things waiting for us to encounter.

16. Find Solitude

At a certain stage of life, your life will be filled with work, family, children, and mundane matters... But occasionally, you need to reserve a quiet corner, giving yourself some time and space. Learning to be alone and understanding yourself is an essential skill.

17. Maintain a Neat Appearance

Everyone appreciates beautiful people and things. Never give up the pursuit of beauty. What determines your age isn't your actual age, but your mindset. When going out, wear clothes you like and apply elegant, understated makeup to make yourself look poised and presentable. At home, keep yourself clean and tidy as well.

18. Yoga or Prayer

It's recommended to set aside some time each day for yoga and prayer. Only with complete relaxation and tranquility of body and mind can we have enough patience and gentleness to examine ourselves and absorb the light and warmth of the world.

19. Get a Pet

Pets are the best companions for humans. If you feel lonely, try getting a dog or a cat. Their healing power is beyond your imagination.

20. Set Small Goals

Set a small goal for yourself every day, every week, and every month. The goal can even be any of the small things mentioned above. These small goals and the sense of accomplishment after achieving them will gradually enrich your life, giving ordinary days a clear direction and plenty of motivation.
How many of these 20 little things can you do? Perhaps this isn't the goal, but simply the hope that you, the reader, will be genuinely happy.