How To ... Be happier

People who laugh and smile are happier and usually live longer than people who lack a sense of humor.

If there's something wrong, accept it and move through it. Ruminating won't help and can lead to depression. If you can't stop the thoughts, see a professional.

If it doesn't, or you can't find any at the moment, act as if you have it until you stumble on what really floats your boat.

It doesn't have to cost money or be a big deal. Sometimes just watching the sunset and letting the world go by can be very healing.

This way, you'll not be bored or waste time. When you read, you are relaxing and learning.

Retrieve the neighbors' garbage cans from the curb. Help a little old lady get her shopping bags into the car. Visit a sick friend. These may seem like insignificant little things, but think how you would feel if someone were similarly helpful to you or someone you love.

Deprivation is depressing. Even if it means you have to spend an extra 20 minutes on the treadmill, that tiny piece of chocolate cake can make you feel like you're not being deprived.

Happiness comes from moving toward what you want, not from getting it. Anytime you achieve a dream, replace it, so you always have something to look forward to.

Remember that happiness is not constant. Some people think that if they're not feeling happy, something is wrong. The truth is that happiness is usually found somewhere off the beaten path between the fantasy overpass and the reality offramp.

-- Scripps Howard News Service