H = S + C + V

Happiness = Set point (50%) + Conditions of living (10%) + Voluntary actions (40%)

Set point => internal cell balance – while this is mostly genetic, your set point is typically the average of a range and you can work to get to the top of that range.

Conditions of living => your fancy car, house, and standard of living

Voluntary actions => acts of gratitude and how you live life

I was reminded over the weekend that conditions of living only constitute 10% of your happiness. So, material pursuits under the excuse of happiness makes very little sense.

So, where do we begin to focus? I suggest starting at “voluntary actions.” Little actions like giving thanks for our gifts regularly contribute to 40% of our happiness.. a great place to start.