Happy Quotes and Defining Happiness

Happiness is often discussed and labeled as a goal in life. To be happy is a positive emotion, sometimes equated with joy. It is something people want to experience and to have more of in their lives. Inevitably, thinking about happiness may help one to question, research and conclude what happiness and the circumstances that lead to it are for oneself. There are many famous writers, leaders, and philosophers who have given their opinion on being happy and the pursuit of happiness. Their ideas may give a unique perspective and inspire new thoughts and actions to another generation.

The happy quotes here are divided into three general categories 1) qualities and characteristics; 2) deciding to be happy; and 3) pursuing happiness. Sources of quotes are in a two letter code after the authors name and can be found under the heading Sources in the table of contents.

Three grand essentials to happiness in this life are something to do, something to love, and something to hope for.
Joseph Addison (BQ)

Happiness is not being pained in body or troubled in mind.
Thomas Jefferson (QW)

Happiness is that state of consciousness which proceeds from the achievement of one's values.
Ayn Rand (QW)

The happiness of your life depends upon the quality of your thoughts: therefore, guard accordingly, and take care that you entertain no notions unsuitable to virtue and reasonable nature.
Marcus Aurelius (BQ)

Happiness and moral duty are inseparably connected.
George Washington (BQ)

photo credit: Catherine at unprofound.com

Most people are about as happy as they make their minds up to be.
Abraham Lincoln (WOS)

Happiness is a choice that requires effort at times.
Aeschylus (BQ)

Happiness depends on ourselves.
Aristotle (WOS)

No man is happy who does not think himself so.
Publilius Syrus (QP)

If you want to be happy, be.
Leo Tolstoy (QW)

photo credit: Catherine at unprofound.com

Whether you are pursuing happiness or have already found it, these products are likely to bring out a smile and a positive attitude. Visit CheerfulGoods at Zazzle to purchase t-shirts, mugs, mouse pads and more.
In association with Zazzle

Happiness...a lack of negativity ♦ Life surrounded by Happys ♦ Happy Happy Happy ♦
Click item or link to purchase. Go to CheerfulGoods Gallery

Happiness: a good bank account, a good cook and a good digestion.
Jean Jacques Rousseau (QP)

The happiness of a man in this life does not consist in the absence but in the mastery of his passions.
Alfred Lord Tennyson (BQ)

Remember this,--that very little is needed to make a happy life.
Marcus Aurelius Antoninus (QW)

True happiness arises, in the first place, from the enjoyment of one's self, and in the next, from the friendship and conversation of a few select companions.
Joseph Addison (BQ)

The Constitution only guarantees the American people the right to pursue happiness. You have to catch it yourself.
Benjamin Franklin (QW)

photo credit: Rusworks at unprofound.com

This review of some of the famous quotes on being happy has provided a brief historical perspective in the quest for happiness. Whether being happy is an internal choice, an external action plan, or something that each person has to define within his/her own circumstances, the goal to increase happiness is one that is shared by many people.

photo credit: Nick at unprofound.com