Of course, happiness is subjective, but there are certain constants that doctors, philosophers, psychologists, researchers, and scientists have all defined as being able to bring about happiness in a person. This little songbird has been doing her share of research to bring you the ”Happy List”– a few simple, yet impactful tips that will help lead you into your happiest year yet!

1. Smile

Did you know that smiling could actually make you healthier? Not only does smiling make you feel better, but it can also help reduce blood pressure and stress-inducing hormones, while raising happiness-enhancing endorphins and serotonin. In fact, a British research study found that a single smile can generate the same level of brain-stimulation as up to 2,000 bars of chocolate – so save the calories and slap on that pretty smile of yours!

2. Have Gratitude

Oprah is credited with making gratitude journals mainstream; however, you don’t need to be a media mogul to have much to be grateful for! The Law of Attraction says that if you want positive things to happen in your life, then show appreciation for what you already have. Make a list of the things you are thankful for. Then add one item each day and keep it on your refrigerator! Looking at the list every day is sure to make you happy!

3. Kick Comparisons to the Curb

Don’t worry about those ten pounds you want to lose, or the celebrity’s body you’re dying for. Real women, like you, come in every shape and size – and you are perfect exactly the way you are! Women who feel good about themselves radiate beauty and confidence. Perhaps Audrey Hepburn said it best: “Happy girls are the prettiest girls!” So embrace your own personal style, and rock it your way!

4. Set Goals

Define the things you want to accomplish – whether it’s embarking on a new career, starting a new hobby, or cooking a new dish. Know what you want and then set a goal for how to accomplish it. Here are a few great books to help get you started!

• The Four Hour Work Week by Timothy Ferris
• Good to Great by Jim Collins
• Write it Down, Make it Happen by Henriette Anne Klauser PhD
• Achieve Anything In Just One Year by Jason Harvey

5. Give Back

It’s a fact that giving back, doing things for others, and altruism makes people happy. Think of some ways you can give back or help others. Whether it’s donating to a favorite charity, volunteering your time, or something as small as opening doors for others or picking up your neighbor’s newspaper. By helping others, you’re also helping yourself!

6. Do What YOU Like

It seems so simple, and yet so many of us busy gals don’t take time to do things for ourselves. Whether it’s a morning yoga class, diving into that book you’ve been dying to read, spending an afternoon baking with your kiddos or a friend, or even just wearing your favorite CAbi outfit – do the things that make YOU happy! The people who love you most are happiest when you’re happy!

7. Surround Yourself With People You Love

There’s an old adage that says you show who you are by the people you’re with. A great way to be happy is to surround yourself with happy people! Spend time with those who matter most, and set out to make a new friend – at church, your children’s school, a CAbi show, or in line at the grocery store. Happy people are everywhere!

8. Feel Your Best

Eat more leafy greens, go for a nature walk, drink more water (or at least less soda), or get all dolled up. Add some color into your wardrobe – wearing bright colors not only makes you happier but makes those around you smile too! Try incorporating new elements in your life that are designed to make you feel good – both on the outside and on the inside!

9. Create a Happy Environment

Design your life to bring you joy! Your environment and surroundings can have a direct impact on your happiness. Whether it’s having access to sunlight while you’re at work, lighting an aromatic candle in a scent you enjoy, painting a wall in your house a color you like, or playing music that makes you happy! There are so many ways to create an environment where you feel happier just by being there.

10. Focus on Your Strengths

Everyone has natural talents, and studies have shown that doing the things you are good at makes you happier. In fact, there’s a book – Strength Finders – dedicated entirely to finding your best strengths and how to maximize them! So get out there and show off your best strengths!