Research has proven that connecting to people makes us happier. This week, I challenge you to connect with someone in your neighborhood. Borrow a cup of sugar, take over a plate of cookies, or say thank you for that time they brought in your garbage cans.

Make an excuse. Stretch. Push. Connect.

Practicing gratitude is such a powerful habit that it can lead you to happiness without any other changes in your life. This week, I challenge you to count three things for which you are grateful every single day.

(iPhone users can download the Happier app for some digital help!)

Mornings can set the tone for the rest of the day. Mornings are also when many of us find ourselves running around like headless chickens directing traffic, which isn’t exactly the tone most of us want for our lives.

While it’s easy to blame dawdling children, spouses who sleep in, annoying drivers, and broken coffee machines for a rough morning, we still (usually) hold the power of our day in our own hands.

This week, I challenge you to add something to your morning routine that will brighten your day. Listen to your favorite song while you shower. Get up 15 minutes early to stretch. Take the time to dress well and put on jewelry. Whatever equates to a good morning for you, make it a priority this week.

Pictures are a great tool for increasing our gratitude. They remind us of happy moments and the people we love. In today’s digital world, however, many of our photos never make it past the digital phase. While digital photos let us store a lot more memories than we could before, they don’t have the advantage of serving as physical reminders of our blessings.

This week I challenge you to pick at least one photo that represents a favorite memory. Print it out and display it in a place where you can relive that memory daily.

What do you want more of in your life?

Creativity?

Love?

Exercise?

Time with family?

If want something in your life, you have to have room for it. When we make space, that space can then be filled up with what we want more of. Make space in your home or your schedule for what you want more of.

Clear off a table to use as a studio. Set aside an afternoon or evening each week that is free from appointments. Declutter a shelf. Cancel your coffee date with the toxic friend. This week I challenge you to actively make space in your life for what you want.