“It Would Make Me Happy If…” A Practical and Healthy Mindset Shift
“It would make me happy if…” This phrase is often treated with suspicion.
We’re taught to feel guilty about it.
But noticing what would genuinely make you happy today—and then doing it can actually increase your sense of ease, satisfaction, and productivity.
Happiness doesn’t have to be big. It’s often ordinary.
What would I feel good about having done by tonight?
Not what would impress anyone. Not what would “fix” your life. Just what would leave you feeling more settled?
Moving your body
Spending time with someone you love
Completing a task you’ve been avoiding
Tidying the kitchen
Finishing your charts
Putting something away instead of stepping over it
These aren’t indulgences.
They’re ways of caring for yourself and/or your future self. And having done them often makes you feel happy.
From Fixing Problems to Choosing Happiness
Many high-achieving people move through their days focused on fixing problems and getting things done. Their minds default to urgency and obligation.
What if, instead, you framed your desired actions or things to do as: It would make me happy if I…
Consider replacing your to-do list with a “What Would Make Me Happy” list.
This is more than positive thinking. It’s a practical mindset shift that helps the brain work more efficiently.
When your thoughts are kind, spacious, and clear -- action follows more naturally with less energy expenditure.
The important things still get done. But with less resistance.
With more calm. And often, more enjoyment.
The result: daily life that feels more aligned rather than exhausting.