Life here in the Great Lakes State sure is wonderful. Those of us who are lucky enough to reside here know that there are only a few rules that must be followed in order to make Michigan a fantastic place to live. If you’re considering relocating, here are nine simple rules for living a happy life in our state.

1. Invest in lots and lots of layers.
Flickr/Tom Gill
It gets cold here in Michigan. Like, really cold. The Great Lakes State is a prime location for lake effect snowfall and frigid temperatures when winter rolls around, so it’s important to bundle up if you’re planning to head outside. That said, our state has also been known to experience 70-degree temps in January, so layers are essential for maintaining a reasonable level of comfort in Michigan.
2. Learn to never count on the weather.
Flickr/Kevin Brown
Speaking of odd temperatures throughout the year, Michigan’s weather is truly unpredictable. Outdoor conditions can shift from hour to hour, minute to minute, even moment to moment. It’s important to remember that a weather report can’t always be trusted here, and you’ll be much happier once you learn to stop blindly trusting the forecast.
3. When the going gets tough, the tough head to the beach.
Flickr/Philip Brewer
One of Michigan’s greatest assets is its proximity to the gorgeous Great Lakes. There’s something truly therapeutic about sitting on the shoreline, watching stunning freshwater waves crash on the beach, or catching a sunset over the water. When times get difficult, take advantage of the lakes’ healing power.
4. Smile and wave back at everyone you see.
Flickr/yooperann
Here in Michigan, we adhere to the strict rules of "Midwest Nice." This means that you’ll often be waved to, smiled at, and greeted by perfect strangers as you make your way down the street or venture into a new restaurant. There’s something wonderful about the sense of community that permeates much of Michigan, and you’re encouraged to adopt this friendly spirit.

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5. Don’t put your hopes in the Detroit Lions.
Flickr/Pete Sheffield
Disappointment can be crushing, but you can’t be disappointed if you’re always expecting the worst -- right? Okay, maybe this isn’t the healthiest mindset, but it certainly helps us deal with the fact that our NFL team is far from fantastic. After all, the Lions have never even appeared in a Super Bowl, so we have no choice but to constantly assume that they’ll lose in the fourth quarter.
6. Treat yourself to Mackinac Island fudge at least a few times per year.
Flickr/Liza Lagman Sperl
Nothing keeps a person happy like copious doses of sugar, right? Absolutely! We Michiganders are lucky to have easy access to one of the most delicious sweet treats imaginable: Mackinac Island fudge! Keep your spirit and your taste buds happy by indulging in this fantastic confection at least a few times per year.
7. Go up north as often as possible.
Flickr/Sailing Nomad
Every Michigander knows that there’s something magical about a journey up north. While the phrase "up north" takes on a different meaning for each and every person, most residents of the Great Lakes State can agree that it connotes family togetherness, new memories, and all sorts of outdoor exploration. Can you imagine a better way to unwind and relax?
8. Let nature calm you.
Flickr/yooperann
We’re lucky to live among some of the most stunning natural views in the world, and you can contribute to your own inner peace by getting outside and letting nature amaze you. Whether you’re gazing out from atop Sleeping Bear Dunes, hiking through the Porcupine Mountains, or kayaking in Lake Superior, you’ll find an outdoor activity here that will steal your heart.
9. Wear your state pride on your sleeve.
Flickr/Bill Vriesema
This might be the last rule on our list, but it’s also the most important: one of the key elements of a wonderful life in Michigan is gratitude. We’re grateful to be from the Great Lakes State, and we certainly aren’t afraid to show it. From Pure Michigan ads to t-shirts touting our love for our home state, there’s something fantastically fun about the pride that comes along with living in the Mitten.

Tell us, fellow Michiganders: are there any other rules you’d add to our list? We always love to hear from you, so share your thoughts and suggestions in the comment section below.

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