Here's what we've learned so far about characteristics of happy people.
Happy people say:

Positive self-concept: I deserve to be happy. I can be happy now and in the future. I have a lot to contribute. I am kind. I am good. I try to be better. I am mature. I am smart. I have will power. I am emotionally healthy. I am brave. I am well liked. I get along well with my family. My happiness increases my confidence.

Lack of avoidance behaviors: I seldom use prescription drugs. I seldom use over-the-counter drugs. I seldom use recreational drugs.

Sense of control: I don't subvert my happiness. I am good at changing my future. I am good at improving myself. I can tell the difference between faking feeling and reality. I have successful problem solving strategies. I am good at changing things around me. I don't belief life is decided; I can change it. I am making good progress toward the kind of person I want to be. I can do anything if I work hard enough. I can forgive myself. When I am not happy I listen to happy music.

Optimism: I have a lot to look forward to. I believe things will be better in the future. I have an exciting life. I will be happy in the future. I don't have a terrible life. My happiness will increase with time. I will be as happy or happier in the future than in the past. I have a great life.

Helpful beliefs: My beliefs help me overcome my problems. My happiness reinforces my beliefs. I don't get ideas about how to be from music. I don't get ideas about how to be from TV. Pretending to be happy doesn't make me happy. I don't pretend to be happy when I'm not.

Intrinsically centered: I wouldn't be happier if I had different people around me. When I help others I learn to help myself. I often help others because it makes the world and me better.