The formula for happiness

Scientists say they have solved one of the greatest mysteries plaguing mankind - just what is the secret of happiness?

The answer, apparently, is nothing as simple as true love, lots of money, or an exciting job. Instead, it can be neatly summarised in the following equation:

Happiness = P + (5xE) + (3xH)

Just to explain, P stands for Personal Characteristics, including outlook on life, adaptability and resilience.

E stands for Existence and relates to health, financial stability and friendships.

And H represents Higher Order needs, and covers self-esteem, expectations, ambitions and sense of humour.

Sound complicated? Actually, it isn't as difficult as it may seem.

Questions on which the equation is based

1. Are you outgoing, energetic, flexible and open to change?
   
2. Do you have a positive outlook, bounce back quickly from setbacks and feel that you are in control of your life?
   
3. Are your basic life needs met, in relation to personal health, finance, safety, freedom of choice and sense of community?
   
4. Can you call on the support of people close to you, immerse yourself in what you are doing, meet your expectations and engage in activities that give you a sense of purpose?
   

Working out the answer

• The questions should be answered on a scale of one to ten, where one is "not at all" and ten is "to a large extent"
  
• Add the scores for question one and two together to find your P value.
  
• The score for question 3 is the value for E, and question 4 for H
  

Each person who completes the questions ends up with a rating out of 100. The higher the score, the more happy they are.

What’s going on people…Do we now have to sit down and work out whether we are happy or not? We can all be happy in a heartbeat if we make the decision…