Don't worry, be happy!
Shrinking retirement funds, job losses, and a general sense of financial malaise may be setting in – but remember, the good things in life are often free. Here are ten cheap ways to brighten your day.
Restring your social web
As a 2006 Forbes article points out, social connections make people happier than money. But how often do we mean to send a letter or a card, make a phone call, or go knock on someone's door – and don't? Take the time you might have spent shopping and get back in touch with a long-lost friend. Email's free once you've paid for Internet access!
Host a potluck
Rather than hosting an evening out at a restaurant or driving yourself crazy with all the details – and expense – of a formal dinner party, go retro and throw a potluck. I predict it will be the party trend for 2009. It doesn't have to be about tired casseroles either – you can set a theme: favourite sandwiches, best brunch dishes, or "anything containing chocolate."
Take a hike
Exercise endorphins can come pretty cheaply if you go out for a walk or a jog. You can add to your happiness factor by selecting a new route – surprise yourself by exploring a local area you haven't slowed down to enjoy before. Just be sure that if your route takes you through the local fashion district that your window shopping remains just that (being sweaty may help here!).
Clear out a corner
Yes, our surroundings influence our mood. Renovations and redecorating may be one of the first things to come off your budget. But that doesn't mean you can't renew your space on the cheap. One of my tricks: take a corner of your bedroom, home office, or sunroom, and clear it out. Then walk through your house and select a few favourite or inspirational items. Use those to recreate that corner as an homage to the things you love.
Just say no
Obligations can weigh heavily on our time and eat into our sense of well being. Having control over one's time – even time to do nothing – can be a source of happiness. So practice the art of the gentle refusal – even at work.
