The bigger the house, the bigger the problem. You don’t need a McMansion to be happy, but you already knew that didn’t you? You can lead a happier life by being grateful for the things you have, including your cozy apartment. 

Start making the most of what you have with these tips.

1. Change What You Can

While most apartment communities won’t allow you to change things the color of your walls, you can create an environment that shows off your personality and add color.

If your room seems a bit drab, add some throw rugs, pillows, and window coverings to brighten up a room and show off your personality. Plants can also add some personality to your environment and help promote a sense of calm. 

2. Get Rid of the Clutter

Clutter can make a small space seem even smaller. It can also make you feel overwhelmed, making it harder to feel at ease and comfortable in your own home. 

Get inspired by Marie Kondo and get rid of anything that does not bring you joy. If you’ve acquired so many items throughout the years that you’re hanging onto simply just because, it’s time to let go. 

What’s left will be items that mean something to you, and that you’ll want to be surrounded by.

3. Put Your Memories on Display

Some of the items you keep after you declutter will be sentimental items like photographs. Put them on display to showcase your life and the people in it. 

By creating an environment in which you’re surrounded by the things you love, you’ll promote happiness. Just make sure to put different items in different rooms, rather than having it all in one place, so you don’t end up feeling cluttered again. 

4. Encourage Socializing 

Simply being more social can make you happier in your day-to-day. If you enjoy reading, create a book nook and host a book club. If you enjoy card games, have an area set up for a game night. Hosting events either in person or virtually will help you feel more at home and happy in your space. 

5. Focus on the Positives 

One sure-fire way to be happy is to simply choose happiness. Flip those negatives into positives. Consider the things you love about apartment living, like the flexibility to move when you need to, more money in your savings because you didn’t need tens of thousands of dollars for a down payment, and the benefit of not having to spend money on home repairs.  

The Key to a Happier Life Is…

Gratitude. Chances are if you’re not happy in your apartment you wouldn’t be much happier in a big house. The key to a happier life is learning to appreciate what you have and make the most of it. 

So take the time to create a home out of your apartment, think of the reasons why you love your lifestyle and surround yourself with things that make you happy. 

If you’re looking for an apartment to call home in Fort Wayne, Indiana, check out your options here.