How to live happy according to Epicurus

Happiness is one of the emotions that humans experience. According to Epicurus the most important thing in life is pleasure which translates a happy mood through following certain things. A happy mood improves our general health

Here’s a clear, no-fluff list of steps to achieve happiness:

Know what matters to you.
Define your values and priorities. Happiness looks different for everyone.
Take care of your body.
Sleep enough, eat real food, move daily. Physical health drives mental health.
Focus on progress, not perfection.
Growth makes people happier than achieving some final "perfect" state.
Control your attention.
Limit distractions, social media, and negativity. Focus on what energizes you.
Invest in relationships.
Strong connections with family, friends, or community are non-negotiable.
Give back.
Helping others boosts your own sense of meaning and fulfillment.
Manage your mindset.
Practice gratitude, self-compassion, and optimism — but be real, not fake-positive.
Do meaningful work.
It doesn’t have to be glamorous. Just something that feels useful or satisfying.
Accept what you can’t control.
Fighting reality creates suffering. Acceptance creates peace.
Make time for play and rest.
Life isn’t only about goals. Play, hobbies, and downtime are crucial.

How to be happy according to Epicurus

Epicurus had a very simple, sharp view of happiness. Here's the core of it:

Seek simple pleasures.
Happiness comes from basic, natural pleasures — good food, friendship, rest — not from luxury or endless desires.
Limit your desires.
Most pain comes from wanting too much. Epicurus taught that if you desire only what you truly need, you'll be content.
Avoid unnecessary pain.
Don't chase things that cause stress, danger, or regret. He believed wise choices lead to peace.
Cultivate friendships.
Epicurus said friendship is one of the greatest sources of happiness — even more important than wealth or fame.
Live without fear.
Especially fear of gods or death. He argued that death is just the end of sensation, nothing to fear, and that the gods (if they exist) aren't concerned with human affairs.