Everyone is on the hunt for happiness. Scientists say that happy people live longer, have a healthier lifestyle and have better relationships. Take it from someone who was struggling to find happiness all throughout high school. Now I'm a sophomore in college, and I think I'm finally starting to discover the hidden secrets to being happy.

Smile

It's the boldest statement without saying a word. Smiling automatically put you in a better mood. Even when you feel like your world is coming to an end, force yourself to smile. I promise you, it works. Smiling also makes you more approachable and confident. A smile is an inviting facial expression that tells people you are willing to talk and interact with them. So turn that frown upside down!

Be confident

You will start to see people noticing you more and you will begin to love yourself even more. Just don't get too cocky.

Accept change and let go of the past

It's time to turn the page and move on to something bigger and better. You won't know what else this life offers if you are stuck in the past.

Surround yourself with the right people

The people who like to see you succeed, who make you laugh, and who make you a better person are the people you need in your life. Get rid of the negative people who put you down and cause stress in your life. It may be hard to let go, but sometimes it hurts more to keep holding on.

Enjoy the little things

It's that time of the year again when the leaves are changing colors, the weather is changing and the Pumpkin Spice Lattes have returned to your local Starbucks. Take a walk in the woods, a hike or just a walk around the block and admire the change of the season.

Pay it forward and don't tell anyone

It's like your own personal secret! Pay for the person's drink behind you at the drive-through or give to someone in need anonymously. Not only will it make their week, it will make you feel like you made a difference in someone's life. It may be small, but at least it's something. Kindness is contagious!

Have YOU time

Sometimes a break from your routine is the very thing you need. Leave time in your day to take an hour or two and do something you love. This could be ANYTHING! Exercise, playing an instrument, go out to coffee with a friend, shopping or even take a nap!

Know your worth

It's this: Sometimes you have to forget what you want to remember what you deserve. It's important to respect yourself first in any relationship. Never settle for less than you're worth. Respect and love yourself and set the standard for others, or you will fail in your search to find the kind of love you want. Don't get comfortable settling for less when you know you deserve the best.

Remember that you are alive. You were woken up this morning for a reason. Things may not be going the way you want them to right now, but your life has a purpose. You may not know it yet, but once you find it, you're going to be glad you stayed.