Tips for raising an optimistic child in a world of pessimism

By Caroline Knorr, Common Sense Media

Updated 0929 GMT (1729 HKT) July 31, 2017

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Helping others, whether you do it directly like these people feeding the homeless, or anonymously, actually makes the helpers happier.
Photos: 10 ways to get happy
1. Practice kindness – Helping others, whether you do it directly like these people feeding the homeless, or anonymously, actually makes the helpers happier.
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Writing down what you're grateful for in a journal, as these students are doing, can lead to better health and more optimism.
Photos: 10 ways to get happy
2. Keep a gratitude journal. – Writing down what you're grateful for in a journal, as these students are doing, can lead to better health and more optimism.
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People who are involved in religious institutions and spiritual practices tend to be happier.
Photos: 10 ways to get happy
3. Get spiritual – People who are involved in religious institutions and spiritual practices tend to be happier.
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Buy tickets to sports events, concerts or the theater to share with your family and friends.
Photos: 10 ways to get happy
4. Buy experiences, not stuff – Buy tickets to sports events, concerts or the theater to share with your family and friends.
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