Eyes on The Prize

The pursuit of happiness is intrinsic to American identity. But two recent studies in Emotion report that seeking a constant stream of positivity often backfires. Still, you're not powerless to change your mood: Positive psychology has demonstrated the lasting benefits of paying attention to where you are, not just to where you're going. In addition, success may be dictated by how explicitly you label your goal as "happiness." Can you make happy happen? Three experts weigh in.

No: Call Off the Chase

Happiness doesn't have to be the be-all, end-all, argues Todd Kashdan, a psychologist at George Mason University. What about curiosity or a sense of purpose? "Trying to make happiness your objective in life is problematic," Kashdan says. Your mood can be thrown off by the weather, circadian rhythms, and other external factors, but you can pursue your passions, for example, which gives you the power to boost your long-term well-being.

Maybe: Joy as Byproduct

"Everything in moderation," cautions Sonja Lyubomirsky, a psychologist at the University of California, Riverside. It's fine to want to be happier—as long as it doesn't slide into an obsession. Don't keep thinking: Is this working? Am I happy? "Put your effort into being a kinder person, improving your relationships, and savoring daily pleasures," suggests Lyubomirsky. Focus on the activity and not the goal, and "happiness can become a byproduct."

Yes: The Mindfulness Approach

Research on motivation suggests that when happiness is an explicit goal, it can be easier to achieve. A decision to be happier can "serve as the impetus for cognitive and behavioral changes that eventually facilitate greater well-being," notes Yuna Ferguson in "Trying to Be Happier Really Can Work," her upcoming study in The Journal of Positive Psychology. What kinds of changes? Practicing exercise and mindfulness is a good place to start.