Though we all know what happiness is, achieving it remains a mystery to most of us. At best it's elusive, a joyful state that crops up when the circumstances are right. But the latest research shows that happiness is right at your fingertips. You can strengthen and develop it, much like a muscle, until you can summon it anytime-even if you generally tend toward a glass-half-empty outlook. "Research shows that our ability to experience happiness is 50 percent influenced by genetics, 10 percent by events, and 40 percent by intention," says Dan Baker, Ph.D., founding director of the Life Enhancement Program at Canyon Ranch, in Tucson, Arizona. "It's a side effect of living purposefully, standing up for what you believe in, and developing your full potential." By doing so, you can elevate not only your state of mind, but your health too. Fortunately, one of the easiest ways to achieve happiness is to break free of daily stressors and focus on the little things in life that bring you joy. To make it even easier for you, we've put together 10 simple steps to follow.

Play up your strengths
"As you're seeking contentment, it's better to focus on your assets rather than try to compensate for your weaknesses," says M.J. Ryan, author of 365 Health and Happiness Boosters. If you're not sure where your talents lie, pay attention to the compliments you receive. Do people at work say you have a knack for reports? If so, look for opportunities to write. Also, get comfortable discussing the expertise you do have. If your community board wants to advertise an event and you studied communications in college, speak up! Showing confidence-and backing it up with action-allows others to see you in your best light, which creates a positive cycle, says Canyon Ranch's Baker. The more you talk about your strong points, the more real they become, the better you feel, and the more likely you are to continue putting your best foot forward.