Happiness is not a destination, it’s a way of life. I read that recently on a sign in the concept store Sluiz in Ibiza and although I find everything that is printed on a sign and for sale somewhat wrong in principle, it did make me think.

Being happy is not related to a certain state of being. I know so many people who have plenty of reasons to complain about life, yet are much cheerier than some whiners riding the wave. It’s all in the mind, in short. And did you know that happy people are also much better at their work? They don’t ‘spill’ time with sighing and groaning. Therefore, on this depressing Tuesday, here are five ways to become happier.

Most important for your mood and state of being. And for your skin too, by the way. No cream can compete with that. So tonight, you’re going to take a nice long bath, or have an extensive shower, and then enjoy a cup of tea in bed. Maybe you’ll watch the program of Eva Jinek (which my husband enjoys, so that makes it fun) and then you’ll close your eyes.

If you take good care of yourself, you’ll feel better all day long. No one will see if you’ve painted your toenails (it’s not that warm today, after all), but really; you sit, stand, and walk more beautifully if you have. This also applies to underwear. Grab a nice set from the drawer. It doesn’t have to match perfectly, but a nice leopard print brief with a black bra really makes you feel attractive, strong, and thus also happy.

Take a moment to appreciate what you have instead of letting yourself be led by the things that aren’t going so well in your life. Cherish your wonderful love, call your mother to thank her for babysitting and also for tackling your entire Mount Everest of chores. What also works is to note down some happy points every day. I did that when I had a job where I faced a lot of setbacks. Instead of dwelling on the thousand things that hadn’t worked out (yet), I wrote down every day what I had managed to achieve beautifully. That really is motivating.

Really, I know how wonderful it is to snuggle up to someone you love and like and then talk about someone you both find a bit less appealing. Yet your happiness meter will register higher if you hold back and just share something pleasant. Gossiping gives negative energy and you will also interpret things about the person you’re gossiping about more negatively. Just remember this saying: Small minds talk about people and great minds talk about ideas. And if you really have an intense need to gossip, go ahead and talk about Kim and Kanye or Peter Jan Rens something like that. That doesn’t count and is almost just as enjoyable.

Receiving is nice, but giving is just a bit more fun. Pour a cup of tea, bring something tasty to the office, give your colleague who is going to do something really cool a gift to congratulate her. A nice handwritten card with it and everyone is happy. Her and you. And those who give, receive, so with a bit of luck, not only a satisfied feeling of happiness but also warmth in return.