Happiness is a feeling of joy, contentment, and well-being. When you're happy, you might smile without thinking about it, feel light and energized, or simply feel satisfied with how things are going in your life.

Happiness comes in different forms. Sometimes it arrives suddenly and intensely, like when you find out school is canceled because of snow or when you finally master a skill you've been practicing for months. Other times happiness is quieter and steadier, like the warm feeling of being surrounded by family at dinner or the satisfaction of finishing a good book.

What makes people happy varies enormously. Some people find happiness in creating art or music. Others feel happiest when playing sports, solving puzzles, or spending time with friends. Many people feel deep happiness when they help others or work hard toward a meaningful goal.

Scientists who study happiness have discovered that it involves both immediate feelings and longer-term qualities. People who report being happy generally have strong relationships, a sense of purpose, and regular experiences of accomplishment.