Top 50 ways to find happiness, including pets, painting and not working in an office

Stay ahead of the curve with our weekly guide to the latest trends, fashion, relationships and more Stay ahead of the curve with our weekly guide to the latest trends, fashion, relationships and more Stay ahead of the curve with our weekly guide to the latest trends, fashion, relationships and more SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. A loving partner, being close to family, laughing everyday and enjoying nature were among the top tips participants gave, alongside getting eight hours sleep, owning a pet and having at least one close friend. Performing small acts of kindness, listening to music and living in the countryside were also recommended, as were reading every day and getting plenty of sunshine. “Creativity appears to be especially important and perhaps this is because it stimulates the mind and allows us to express ourselves and release any frustrations.” As well as providing a comprehensive list of top tips, the survey also found that 90 per cent of participants believe happiness improves overall health, with 37 per cent admitting they are happier now than they have ever been. Top 50 secrets to a long and happy life: A loving partner Being close to family Laughing every day Doing regular exercise Getting out and enjoying nature Getting eight hours a sleep Owning a pet Having enough money to do what you want Having a job you love Playing with your children/grandchildren Having a hobby Having at least one really close friend Getting your five-a-day Living in the countryside A small act of kindness every day Reading every day Having lots of friends Having a good sex life Having breakfast every day Going on lots of little holidays Listening to music every day The Mediterranean diet Seeing lots of the world Looking after your appearance Working with people you get along with Making sure you get enough sun Having treats like chocolate and cake in moderation Avoiding alcohol Going on a big holiday every year Doing a crossword or Sudoku every day Doing puzzles Watching your favourite TV shows Getting up early Cooking every day Relaxing with yoga or meditation Eating whatever you want Having a lie in at least once a week Getting involved in the local community Doing things for charity Staying single Going to events like concerts or sporting events Going to the beach as much as possible Doing something craft-related such as knitting or crochet Not working in an office Giving someone else a compliment every day Having a good gossip Taking/looking at photos every day Painting or drawing Getting a compliment from someone else every day Playing a musical instrument every day Last month, a survey published by the Office for National Statistics suggested that marriage is also a key factor finding contentment.