When asked what makes you happy, you would probably have no problem providing me with a few answers—a new car, less body fat, a higher-paying job, and so on.They usually have a similar theme;i.e., our happiness depends on external circumstances.
You may be surprised to learn that materialistic things rarely determine long-term happiness.That which you have always assumed would make your life much more joyful may not actually improve long-term happiness. Happiness is determined by innate factors and perceptions, as well as experiences.
Humans are social animals;we need to socialize.The biggest predictor of happiness is the extent of our social relationships.A primary reason why our brains have evolved in the manner they have is that we can be social.
It is not realistic, nor is it desirable to be happy all the time.What is important is learning to appropriately regulate those potentially damaging thoughts.