There’s a reason the American Declaration of Independence grants its citizens the right to pursue happiness. Why? Because we all covet it. There isn’t a coaching client that I’ve worked with or a person I know that doesn’t have this as the underlying reason for wanting to achieve whatever goal they come to coaching for: they want to be happy, or happier.

Do you know someone in your life who is always happy whatever the circumstances? Well they may not be blond (they’re supposed to have more fun), or in that Egyptian river called “denial.” They may be working at it. Social scientists have outlined strategies that anyone can follow if they want to be happier.

If you want to increase your happiness in your day-to-day life, there are a number of intentional strategies and mindful actions that you can use to achieve a happier life. These include: expressing gratitude; cultivating optimism; avoiding over thinking or ruminating; practicing acts of kindness; nurturing social relationships; developing strategies for coping; learning to forgive; increasing “flow,” experiences; savoring life’s joys, committing to goals; practicing religion and spirituality; and lastly, taking care of your body through meditation or physical activity. With these suggestions comes the caveat that depending on the individual, some will work better than others.

Scientists claim that 40 per cent of our happiness can be impacted through intentional activities and that these activities can immensely improve our happiness, regardless of our biological set point. With that in mind, you might want to give one or two of the suggested strategies a try. The best way to see improvement is to pick a strategy that fits you best.

Your choices directed at increasing your happiness should be guided by three things. First, your activity should be directed at the area where you want to be happier. For example, if you’re overweight, then start exercising and taking better care or your body. Second, pick an activity that fits your strengths. If you’re an achievement oriented person, you may do well at pursuing significant life goals or taking up a competitive sport. And lastly, in your quest to be happier, you should pick an activity that fits your needs and lifestyle. For example, if your life is busy and stressful, then pick an activity like counting your blessings that doesn’t take any more time out of your day.

The important thing is to pick one or two activities and integrate them into your life for a month or two. Then monitor the results. If you feel happier, continue and expand the practice and if you’re not, keep looking for other happiness strategies. As part of my happiness practice, I exercise regularly, practice monitoring my thoughts and being forgiving, have a long list of goals and regularly go over the day’s highlights before I drop off to sleep. It works for me and these strategies can work for you.