The Science of Happiness

According to a feature on The Today Show, 50% of how happy we feel is based on genetics. We can control the other half.  There is a level of hard-wiring in terms of how happy we feel, but we can work around it.
Perspective, attitude, and optimism matters.  There are ways to be more optimistic and studies have shown that optimists are much happier.  They appreciate what they have and don't think about what they don't have.
Tips on being happy

• 5 random acts of kindness per week
• keep a gratitude journal - focusing on what you are thankful for keeps you in that positive space
• forgive - it releases you from a psychological imprisonment
• write someone a thank-you letter - pen to paper, not email.  The process of thanking someone makes a difference.
• getting enough sleep
• having fun
• think about what's true for you, e.g. don't force yourself to find all your happiness from motherhood if that is not true for you.
• make your bed!  There is something about the tangible act that helps people feel there is order in their lives and that they are starting their day right.  I have been trying to tell my husband and son this!  I am a stickler about a bed being made first thing.
• strong relationships - joining a group, throwing a party, and just showing up.

Source: The Today Show, 4/30/10