We aren't built to be happy

Jonathan Clements, who writes a column for the Wall Street Journal, says "rather, we are built to survive and reproduce. We wouldn't be here today if our ancestors didn't struggle mightily to protect and feed their families. The promise of happiness, meanwhile, is just a trick to jolly us along."

A Harvard professor offers further advice. Author of "Stumbling on Happiness," he says:

Suppose you think you will be happier if you move to a small rural town,
adopt a child, or quit your job and become a high school math teacher.

Don't rely on the opinions of people who live in small towns, have adopted
kids or become teachers. Instead, spend some time observing these folks --
and see whether they're happy.