We live in a world that believes in postponing happiness exemplified by the following statements:

I will be happy when I make $ 100,000 a year; I will be happy when I get my dream house; I will be happy when I retire.

Happiness is not associated with wealth or riches. In my travels to different parts of the world, I found that the happiest people were often the poorest. They were thankful for what they had and were free of worries, stress and anxiety.

Many of us believe that health and happiness are the most important things in our lives. As parents we wish for health and happiness for our children. There is no denying that the tow are closely connected to one another. Unless you have good health, happiness is not fulfilled.

Happiness may mean different things to different people. Certain people receive happiness from hard work, while others can be totally fulfilled siting by a stream with fishing rod, or by reading a good book.

It proves that we are all unique and that we function at different levels of personal satisfaction and happiness. I like to share some tips with you, which if practiced, will make most of us happier.

Twelve ways to increase personal happiness

Practice every day. If you don't use it, You're liable to lose it.

Smile at every opportunity. Your smile is your personal signature. It helps putting you in a happier frame of mind, as well as stimulating those around you to smile back.

Figure out what makes you happy and laugh. Make a list of things that trigger happiness and laughter for you. Keep the list handy and consult when needed.

Hang out with happy people who enjoy laughing and can make you laugh. Happiness and laughter are contagious, so be sure to catch the wave.

Plan 'fun' and 'play' in your day-timer, or on your calendar. Don't plan work and busy times only. If you don't plan for fun and play, it won't happen.

Be kind to yourself. Don't use up all your available time without any breaks. Lear to say 'No' once in a while. Believe me the universe will continue even if you stop to smell the roses now and then.

Learn to laugh at yourself and your mistakes.

Look for humor around you, bumper stickers, funny signs etc. Humor is all around us if we learn to look for it.

Share your embarrassing experiences with friends, What was devastating at the time can be most hilarious after the fact.

Recall some of the funny things that happened to you at the end of the day. Write them down and look them up when you're feeling down in order to give you a lift.

Don't be afraid to do something silly. Sometimes nonsense makes the best sense. Let the child, the clown escape from within and have some fun.

Practice optimism, because optimists are more successful and happier in life.