If we want to feel more joy, it is time to change the world around us.
According to studies involving twins living in the same country, genetic differences among individuals account for 30 - 40% of their overall happiness.
Independent of the genes, the other 60-70% of happiness results from environmental influences.
World Happiness Report found that three-quarters of human happiness is driven by six factors: strong economic growth, healthy life expectancy, quality social relationships, generosity, trust, and freedom to live the life that's right for you.
These factors don't materialize by chance; they are intimately related to a country's government and cultural values.
In other words, the happiest people live in countries that incubate joy. Citizens feel secure, have a purpose, and enjoy lives that minimize stress and maximize contentment.
Because the U.S. isn't among the top 10 happiest places in the world, to make where we live a better place, we need to find and cultivate policies that change our environment.
Build the middle class, help citizens thrive economically
Relieve the financial burdens on hardworking rural families
Improve the health of all Americans
Invest in mental healthcare
Invest in programs that cultivate quality social relationships
Build policy that values compassion and generosity
Elect people of integrity to rebuild trust in our government systems
Provide individuals the liberty and freedom to pursue happiness
For citizens' pursuit of happiness, we must build a better Nation for us all to live in.