Positive emotions, like joy, gratitude, and love, can boost your mood and mental health. It’s not about being happy all the time but about finding moments of positivity in your daily life.

Examples:

• Taking a moment to appreciate a sunset or something beautiful around you

• Helping a parent or grandparent with something without being asked and seeing how it makes them (and you) feel good

• Writing down three things you're grateful for at the end of each day

Doing things you love helps you relax and feel more fulfilled. Whether it’s a hobby, sport, or creative activity, making time for fun is essential for your well-being.

Examples:

• Playing video games, drawing, or listening to music when you need a break

• Playing pickup basketball, soccer, or other sports with friends on weekends.

• Reading a book, baking, or doing something that takes your mind off the things stressin

Strong connections with people help you feel supported and understood. These relationships are built through trust, open communication, and shared experiences.

Examples:

• Making plans to hang out with friends, even if it’s just to watch a favorite show together

• Reaching out to someone you haven’t talked to in a while just to check-in

• Joining an online community or group chat centered around a shared interest like gaming, art, or music

• Joining a club at school to meet people who share your interests

Having a sense of purpose motivates you and helps you feel like you’re contributing to something bigger than yourself. At this point in your life, finding meaning and purpose can feel overwhelming as you try to figure out who you are and who you want to become. That’s okay! You aren’t supposed to have it all figured out yet – we’re all trying our best.

Examples:

• Volunteering for a cause you care about, like helping animals or the environment

• Exploring different subjects or activities to figure out what you're passionate about

• Mentoring or tutoring younger students in a subject or hobby you’re good at

• Setting long-term goals, like going to college or learning a trade, that align with your passions

Achieving goals, even small ones, helps you feel confident and capable. It can also boost your self-esteem and give you a sense of progress.

Examples:

• Setting a goal to complete a big school project on time or applying for that job you’ve been wanting and then feeling proud when you follow through

• Learning a new skill, like playing an instrument or cooking a new recipe

• Finishing a workout routine or sticking to a healthy habit you’ve been working on

• Finishing a personal project like writing a short story, building something, or completing a piece of artwork and feeling a sense of pride.