What makes a person happy? Scientists have conducted many studies to determine what affects our happiness level. According to research, genetics plays the most significant role, accounting for about 50% of the impact. The other 10-20% are our life indicators, such as marital status, religion, work, and income.

Even though we don’t choose our genetic starting point, we do influence what happens next. Our actions, mindset, and lifestyle can shift our happiness either upward or downward. A vivid example is Gretchen Rubin, the author, who wanted to prove this theory and change her life.

Rubin devised a year-long experiment to boost her happiness. With a thriving career, a joyful family life, and everything seemingly in place, she appeared truly fortunate. But even when things are seemingly perfect, people still can feel unhappy. Gretchen was often in bad humor. She found herself annoyed by even the smallest things, while the daily grind made it hard to appreciate the good. That’s how the experiment called “Happiness Project” appeared.

Rubin was inspired by Benjamin Franklin’s Virtues Chart, a guide for self-improvement. His idea was to identify 13 virtues that he monitored daily to assess his progress. Franklin took one virtue, such as determination, observed himself for a whole day, and then gave a score for that trait. Rubin decided to create a structured plan, breaking her project into key areas: career, family, children, her marriage, and personal energy.

Experts have found that structured planning often plays a vital role in accomplishing lasting success. Splitting different areas into small goals allows you to keep them in mind by monitoring each area. Each month, Rubin addressed a new area of her life, using a blend of scholarly research, philosophical wisdom, and personal reflection to seek improvements.

Rubin’s project emphasizes that there is no one universal recipe for everyone. Each path is built on personal values, visions, and desires. People put a different meaning into the word “happiness:” some see their ideal life by the sea, while others want to buy an apartment in the center of New York. That’s why Rubin tried to find the key to happiness that would be in tune with her goals.