Connection with other people and the feeling of belonging are essential for a happy life.

Research shows:

• People with stronger social connections tend to live longer.
• Marriage decreases the risk of depression, suicide, and substance abuse.
• Mental health and relationships are vital to happiness.

If you struggle to network, start networking online, or team up with an extrovert, adopt outgoing traits, and practice your elevator pitch.

Mark Twain wrote, "comparison is the death of joy."

While it is normal to compare yourself with others, it's also a waste of time. Your comparison could be a wrongful assessment as you may be comparing yourself to someone who isn't as happy as they pretend to be.

We often pay more attention to what we don't have instead of what we do have. Studies found that giving thanks makes us happier. People that show gratitude are more optimistic, feel better about their lives and exercise more. It also can improve relationships.

Every evening, reflect and write down everything that you're grateful for.

It can keep us from doing things that can hurt us, but it can also paralyse and prevent us from making our lives better.

We can overcome fear by replacing it with something else. For example, if you are fearful of starting your own business, challenge the fear by:

• Accomplishing one small, achievable project each day, such as finding a mentor.
• Get creative or learn a new skill.
• Surround yourself with supporters.
• Recognise the real value of your life and abilities.