By: Linda Vongkhamchanh

Jul 07, 2009

How happy are you? Could you be a little happier? What constitutes your happiness? On a day to day basis, we rarely think about our happiness. However, it may not be a bad idea to give it some thought. Sonja Lyubomirsky, author of The How of Happiness, has been studying this topic for the last twenty years. Now, after much needed research, you can evaluate your own happiness and find ways to improve your happiness with the Live Happy iPhone application, based on Sonja’s book.

“I do research on happiness and what it is—why are some people happier than others? What are the benefits of happiness? How do we increase happiness? For a while, there wasn’t enough science there to write a book on. But, after 17 or 18 years, there is,” says Sonja.

Studies conducted by Sonja and her colleagues have shown certain behaviors, such as showing acts of kindness, expressing gratitude or practicing optimistic thinking enhances one’s happiness. The iPhone app allows you to assess your own happiness and prompts you to engage in these activities. Sonja explains, “It’s like a personal trainer—you know you can read a book about exercise but it’s nice to have someone that prompts you to do it and tell you that you’re doing it right.”

Did you know that replaying happy days and looking through old photo albums could make you happier? It’s simple activities like these that we should get into the habit of doing. If we can check our email every few minutes, it can’t be too difficult stop and just reflect on the things in life that make us happy.

“It’s deep and not just superficial. I always talk about the importance of variety, or else, you’re not going to get that happiness boost out of it,” says Sonja.

While many are stressed about work, the economy, their personal lives, and others suffer from depression or anxiety, there are small steps that can make a difference. “I’ve talked to a lot of people who are not unhappy or stressed out but they want to be more fulfilled. Their lives are fulfilling, but it’s not flourishing,” says Sonja. Who couldn’t use a little more happiness in their lives?

We know not everyone has an iPhone. And, for those of you that still know what it feels like to read the old-school way—like a book and not digitally—why not try practicing these behaviors on your own. It doesn’t take much to flip through old albums, whether it’s on your phone or in album, show someone thanks, set personal goals, or even reflect on the best person you can be. Try it. You might just be happy with the results.

Click here to purchase the app.

For more information on The How of Happiness, visit Amazon.com.