Who wouldn't like to have more verve, a greater zest for life? The good news is, even the genetically grouchy can increase their overall level of contentment.
Studies suggest that half of the variability in happiness "set point" from one person to the next is due to biology, with another 10 percent determined by life circumstances. According to psychologist Sonja Lyubomirsky, that leaves a large chunk—40 percent—that you can do something about. "Through intentional activities, behaviors and thoughts you can change your happiness."
In her 2007 book, The How of Happiness, Lyubomirsky, PhD '94, a professor at UC-Riverside, outlined various science-backed strategies to nurture joy, such as practicing optimism and savoring pleasures. But as with forming any new habit, she says, it's important to commit to doing it on a regular basis.
Lyubomirsky recently partnered with Signal Patterns Labs to develop an application for the iPhone based on her research. The $9.99 app helps determine which happiness-boosting activities are a good personal fit ("Not everyone should count their blessings") and provides a convenient way to integrate them into daily life.
As an added bonus, happy people are more likely to set goals and achieve them—whatever they may be.
