Subtle habits that cause unhappiness in the long run

Wake up. Eat. Sleep. Go on automatic. Watch the years go by. Wake up. Sleep. Maybe never wake up again. Seeking happiness, even if it seems like an everyday excuse, is the best goal to avoid falling into an emotional void. Well, we survive on daily habits that, without realizing it, sabotage us. Maybe it's time to review your routine if you're constantly thinking about never waking up again: there are bad habits that affect happiness.

Have you ever felt like everything in your life is fine, but you still can't seem completely happy? According to Sumédico , the reason could lie in common behaviors, very subtle but difficult to distinguish.

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1. Constantly comparing yourself on social media

Spending hours scrolling through "perfect lives" on Instagram or Facebook can trigger upward social comparison, a phenomenon that increases anxiety and weakens self-esteem. Studies show that spending more than two hours a day on social media increases the risk of personal dissatisfaction. The remedy? Limit your time online, follow accounts that truly inspire you, and remember: on social media, you only see what people want to show.

2. Postponing your happiness

Thinking you'll be happy "when you find a partner," "when you lose weight," or "when you get that promotion" is a mental trap. Harvard experts point out that Delaying happiness anchors you in a constant state of lack. The key is to be grateful for what you have today and learn to enjoy the journey, not just the goals.

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3. Overthinking problems

Reliving mistakes and negative situations over and over again, known as rumination, only fuels sadness. Research from Yale University links this practice to a increased risk of depression and anxiety. To break out of this cycle, focus on activities that require concentration or write down your thoughts to free them.

4. Saying "yes" when you mean "no"

Accepting commitments you don't want to make for fear of looking bad drains your emotional energy and fills you with resentment. According to cognitive behavioral therapy, learning to set clear boundaries is essential to protecting your well-being. Start small: reject at least one unnecessary commitment a week.

5. Living on automatic mode

Eating without savor, working without enthusiasm—this only applies if the job warrants it—or spending time with loved ones without really connecting are signs that you're living on autopilot. A study published in Science revealed that those who practice mindfulness — mindfulness— during their daily activities they experience higher levels of dopamine.

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