We might also say that it is the process of economic growth itself that makes us happy, not the level of wealth that we enjoy as a result.

FORBES: World Happiness Report: Even Jeff Sachs and Richard Layard Don't Really Believe It

Shopping not only "makes us all happy and smile, " it is also a major economic force, Lowy noted.

CNN: Europe's largest shopping mall gets Olympics boost

But in the final analysis what makes us happy or regretful is not only money but if our lives have found purpose.

FORBES: Magazine Article

If something makes you poorly and you are not happy about it, don't just put it down to chance or fate - someone put the bug there and should be held to account.

BBC: Former Health Minister Edwina Currie quizzed

So, if it's not material prosperity, what makes us happy?

NPR: 'Happiness Index' Bucks Financial Woes

What makes people happy, they argue, is not necessarily good.

ECONOMIST: Two new books probe the limits of capitalism

If, perhaps, you choose to work 90-hour weeks and skimp on leisure time, it follows that work is what makes you happy or at least happier than taking extra time for leisure: otherwise you would not be doing it.

ECONOMIST: The economics of happiness: Can't buy it? | The