How to use email as a tool of happiness instead of an instrument of misery

Chances are you don’t think of email as something that makes you happier. Most of us get too much of it, send too much of it, and check it way too often. It’s a stress-pit.

But here’s something you can do to hate your inbox a bit less and actually feel happier:

Send a nice thank you email to someone you care about — a friend, family member, colleague, anyone who has done something you appreciate. We’re willing to guarantee that it will make them smile and writing it will make you happier.

Studies have shown that staying connected to your close social network is a huge contributor to happiness and what better way to keep that connection than with a quick thank you email. (Especially when it comes on a Monday, not everyone’s favorite day.)