Through controlled experiments, psychologist Sonja Lyubomirsky, PhD found that happiness is determined by three factors:

1. Genetics–studies of twins and adoptees show that our happiness/unhappiness response can be explained by the way Mother Nature mixes the chromosomes we inherit from our parents.

2. Life circumstances–our income, marriage, children, occupation, physical health and where we live contributes to our overall chance to experience happiness.

3. Intentional activity–learned emotional and behavioral factors contribute to our happiness

How we act and how we respond to circumstances contributes to our overall chance to experience happiness. Mental and behavior changes can enable us to rise above our chromosomes and circumstances. Those who cultivate certain habits can learn to live a joyful, contented life no matter what circumstances occur.    

Others have the right to expect that we keep the promises we make, that we tell the truth, that we pay our debts, that we cause them no injury and that we do nothing that might impede their pursuit of a well-lived life. These expectations are obligations of justice. Beyond obligations of justice stand three virtuous habits that will lead to a life filled with happiness:

1. Altruism—generosity, helpfulness, and kindness that flows out of us like a spring-fed stream

2. Gratitude–those who are happiest make a long list of reasons to be grateful

3. Optimism— a hopeful outlook turns thorns into roses,

                                     sand into sea,

        







rain into rainbows,

and darkness into light