Go to sleep at a decent hour

It's scientifically proven that if you don't get enough sleep, you are going to be moody and irritable. Start going to bed 15 minutes earlier each night until you find your optimal bedtime -- the time when you wake up without an alarm clock in the morning and you feel happy and rested.

Don't let yourself get hungry

Snacking is good for you. Of course, we aren't advocating filling up on chips and cookies throughout the day. However, you should eat healthy snacks between meals to avoid getting hungry. Depriving yourself of food zaps your body of energy and, like lack of sleep, it makes you feel irritable. Don't let yourself get hungry throughout the day and you'll have a much better outlook on life.

Smile when you aren't happy

Yes, we are talking about the concept of fake it 'til you make it. Those moments when you are feeling a little down, force yourself to smile. By smiling, you can trick your body into thinking you are happy and encourage those "feel good" hormones.

Travel often

You don't need to take exotic vacations or spend a lot of money, but you should travel often to unfamiliar places -- even in your hometown. Novelty is one of the key factors of happiness, so by putting yourself in an unexpected, unfamiliar situation, you'll get a sense of happiness and satisfaction. You should also try to regular experience new activities or challenges -- take a class, learn a game or tackle a work project.

Exercise daily

Get off the couch and get outside to exercise. The fresh air and exercise will do wonders for you both physically and emotionally. Exercise is a natural mood-enhancer. So even if you don't feel like jogging or going to the gym, force yourself to do it. You'll be much happier once you get moving.

Treat yourself

Every week, treat yourself to something special. It doesn't have to be something extravagant -- even a pedicure or the latest bestseller will do. Spending a little money (or finding some "me time") on the things you enjoy will satisfy your basic need of feeling loved and happy.

Quit nagging

Nagging promotes negativity and you want to do the opposite. Stop nagging at your husband and kids. It probably isn't doing any good anyway, and it only makes you feel angry and bitter. So relax a little bit, don't sweat the small stuff, and remove that negative energy in your life.

More about happiness and health

10 Foods that lift your mood
8 Health benefits of laughter
Use your mind to heal your body