Do you ever wonder how you can achieve more happiness? I was in kind of a funk the other day and I started brainstorming about what I could do to achieve happiness. Since I believe that there is a direct link between health and happiness I wanted to figure out how to achieve more happiness instantly so I wrote down this list.

Let me ask, do you achieve enough happiness? If you’re like me you probably believe that happiness is one of those things you can never have enough of. Do you know anyone who has become sick of being happy? No, of course not! I don’t think that it’s really possible to be too happy.

I believe that happiness, and its accompanying laughter, gives us a euphoric feeling that cannot be produced by anything else. So when you’re in a funk, like I was, remember that happiness is a choice. Use one of the following tips to achieve happiness and bring more joy into your life.

1. Get a pet – Animals are lots of fun. I have a bird that I let nibble on my ear. You might want to go to your local pet shelter and find a new friend who will be forever grateful for your love. It’s the gift that keeps on giving.

2. Learn a musical instrument – Doesn’t everyone want to be a musician? Most people put off learning an instrument because they are afraid it’ll take too long to get good. Time’s going to pass anyway and remember, it’s the journey – not the destination! The sooner you pick it up, the sooner you’ll get better.

3. Try something new – Ever wanted to hang glide or sky dive? Maybe it’s time to stop thinking about it and just get out and do it. Doing new things is a great way to achieve more happiness.

4. Give to a charity of your choice – Giving can make you feel so good inside. Why not do something good for a change? If you want to feel really good give your time.

5. Help someone in need – There are so many unfortunate people in the world. Lending a helpful hand can brighten anyone’s day. This will also brighten your day. This can be for people you know or people that just need a hand.

6. Read a book – Read a biography of someone you admire. Sometimes reading about someone else’s issues and how they overcame them can help put yours in perspective.

7. Bake some cookies – The mere smell of fresh baked cookies can pull anyone out of a funk. Just remember not to get in the habit of replacing your funky feeling with food.

8. Call an old friend – How many times have you put off calling an old friend? Have you ever noticed that when you finally do you always find yourself asking: why didn’t I do this earlier? Pick up the phone today. It’s an easy way to instantly achieve a little more happiness.

9. Go see a concert – Listening to live music is such an amazing experience, and can make you feel like the music is being played just for you. If you can’t go in person find a concert on one of the 300 music channels on your cable TV box.

10. Enjoy some sex – Sex seems to make almost everyone feel better. This is something can be done alone, and in the comfort of your home. Of course, for extra enjoyment, include a friend.

Remember, everyone experiences a little sadness from time to time. It’s just how life is. But you don’t have to roll around in it. Use one of the activities above or find a new and fun activity of your own. Soon you’ll have forgotten about your worries and will achieve the happiness you’re looking for.

Happiness is a choice, so decide to choose it. Life is too short to live any other way. Get out and enjoy a little more health and happiness, one day at a time.

Wil Dieck is the founder of Total Mind Therapy author of two e-Courses “Reprogramming Your Subconscious Mind” and “Unlocking the Secret Advantage of Hypnosis” that you can have at no charge . You can sign up here to receive these positive thinking tips delivered by e-mail weekly.