Happy

A couple weeks ago I watched a gloriously uplifting documentary called Happy.  Everyone should watch it (you can stream it on NetFlix) so I won't give away too much, but my key take-away was that the circumstantial things that happen in life only contribute to ten percent of your happiness level.  Your genetics make up a large portion of it (about fifty percent) but the remaining forty percent is tied to your intentions and actions.  To me, that's great news because it means I can do things to directly effect my happiness level.

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I know I literally just said I don't want to give too much away, but despite my optimism I'm also a realist.  Here's my SPOILER ALERT!  You've been warned.  If you're still reading, I assume that means you don't plan on watching this movie.  Shame on you.  Because I want to contribute to Americas Gross National Happiness (that's a real thing- it's in the movie) I will share with you some of the specifics on how to increase your happiness:

• Play (For a how-to guide, check out this article from Mark's Daily Apple here)
• New experiences  (Travel, anyone?)
• Physical Exercise
• Friends and family
• Helping others
• Appreciation

Pretty simple.  Very important.  Now go forth and be happy!  (Bonus: Today is Friday!)