Student Support Services
November 7, 2025 – Edition 14
The 10 Keys to Happiness
The 10 keys to happiness are based on a review of the latest research from psychology related fields. Everyone’s path to happiness is different, but the evidence suggests that these terms, ‘Ten Keys’, consistently give a positive impact on people’s happiness and wellbeing.
Our community shares a collective responsibility to support the wellbeing of young minds by demonstrating how we cultivate happiness in ourselves.
If any of these keys unlock something you have been thinking about, why not do something about it today? Our children are watching, so model by doing what makes you happy.
The first five keys (GREAT) are about how we interact with the outside world in our daily lives.
GIVING – Do kind things for others
RELATING – Connect with people
EXERCISE – Take care of your body. Move it or lose it.
AWARENESS – Live life mindfully
TRYING OUT – Keep learning new things.
The next five keys (DREAM) come from inside us and depend on our attitude to life.
DIRECTION – Have goals to look forward to
RESILIENCE – Find ways to bounce back
EMOTIONS – Look for what’s good
ACCEPTANCE – Be comfortable with who you are
MEANING – Be part of something bigger
Visit the Action for Happiness website for ideas, short videos, and practical actions related to each of the Ten Keys to Happiness.
Mandy Barr, Sarah Quin, and Joanne Devota Rando
Student Counselors
