How to Boost Your Happiness by Changing Your Environment
Have you ever dreamed of a life that feels easy, peaceful, and in harmony with who you are? A life that supports you, carries you forward, and feels like it’s flowing with you, not against you? Many people say they feel like life is something they have to endure. But I’ve always thought, why should we just put up with life? Shouldn’t life lift us up and help us reach our dreams?
This is where the power of your environment comes in. The right environment can carry you, elevate you, and make everything feel lighter. I’ve lived in many countries, and I can tell you, some places are simply more supportive than others. Some countries can feel toxic, especially if you’re sensitive or going through a fragile time. If you’re surrounded by people who are unfriendly, unhelpful, or just not very open, it can be tough. I’ve experienced this in parts of Europe—France, Belgium, Switzerland, and others. It’s not always easy.
But then there are places that feel completely different. I’ve always loved the Anglo-Saxon countries. The UK is good, and Canada is even better, especially the western part. I haven’t been to central Canada, but Vancouver, Alberta, and even Toronto (from what I hear) are great. The west of Canada really stands out. I’ve also spent a lot of time in New Zealand and Australia, and I have to say, Australia is my number one. I lived in Adelaide for a long time, and now I’m in Sydney. Brisbane is amazing too. The people are relaxed, friendly, and always willing to help. Even in Sydney, which is a big city, life feels much more relaxed than in places like Brussels or Paris.
Auckland and Wellington in New Zealand are also lovely, even if the shops close early. The environments there really support you. People are helpful, the cities are clean, and there’s a sense of kindness and safety. In my experience, Australia is extremely safe, and so is Vancouver, even if there are some rough areas. Even being just four hours from Seattle, Vancouver still feels secure.
Of course, not everyone can just pack up and move to a new country. But if you’re stuck in a place that doesn’t support you, and you have even a little flexibility, consider a change. There are many countries in Asia, for example, where the cost of living is low. I haven’t been to Asia yet, but I know there are options. If you’re in Oceania—New Zealand or Australia—the quality of life is incredible. I’d love to visit New Caledonia one day, even if it’s just for a trip.
For me, working in IT, remote work is possible, although sometimes the internet can be slow in certain places. But I still prefer English-speaking countries. Even though I’m speaking to you in French, I feel most natural in English-speaking environments. It’s just who I am.
But what if you can’t move? You can still improve your daily environment. Even if you live in a tiny apartment, you can make it feel good. Right now, I’m in a small meeting room, but it’s comfortable and I feel supported. You can use creative solutions—like boxes as walls—to make your space your own. Even in a small place, you can create a cozy, uplifting atmosphere.
It’s also about your mindset. Ask yourself: what can I change in my routines and habits to feel better? The ambiance matters. Music can help—create playlists that lift your mood. The information you consume is important too. I used to listen to conferences by Brian Tracy, Anthony Robbins, and even David Laroche. Find voices that inspire you.
Food is another key part of your environment. You really do become what you eat, and what you feed your mind. Eating well and keeping a balanced diet can change your body and your mind, even if you don’t notice it right away. Darren Hardy, in his book The Compound Effect, talks about how small daily habits add up. If you eat cake every day, over time you’ll gain weight. But if you save a little money or make a small positive change every day, the effects multiply. This is the compound effect at work.
You become what you repeatedly do. Small actions, repeated over time, create big results. — Darren Hardy
There’s also the idea of compound interest, not just in finance, but in habits. Every good habit you build pays off over time. Read books that help you grow in the areas you care about. It really does change your life.
Don’t expect your life to change if you keep doing the same things. You have to break your routine and build better habits. Get rid of the bad ones. This is the only way to create something new and better for yourself.
Key Takeaways
- Your environment—where you live, who surrounds you, what you consume—shapes your happiness and growth.
- If you can, choose a place that supports and uplifts you. If you can’t move, make your current space as positive as possible.
- Small daily habits, both physical and mental, add up to big changes over time.
- Feed your mind and body with good things: inspiring voices, healthy food, and uplifting routines.
- Don’t expect change without changing your habits.
Ask Yourself:
- Is your environment helping you grow, or holding you back?
- What small change can you make today to improve your daily life?
- Are your habits leading you toward the life you want?
Pierre-Henry Soria
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