Being happy is not just a feeling of wellbeing, it can also take you to the path of success, according to Shawn Achor, author of The Happiness Advantage, a Harvard University lecturer.

Positive thinkers have a biological advantage over people who think negative or remain neutral. Also, happiness is a skill that can be acquired, says Achor.

In the book Achor says human brain could be retrained to think positive and improve productivity and performance. Meditation is another powerful tool to ward off stress, improve immunity and raise levels of happiness. Here is a list of happiness tools Achor has written about:

Find something to look forward to: the state of anticipation is often the most enjoyable part of a future activity. It opens the pleasure centers in the brain.

Be kind: learn the art of giving. Research has found that giving to friends and even strangers decreases stress level and is good for the mental health.

Create positivity in your immediate surroundings: Even small acts like putting pictures of loved ones on the work desk ensure positive flow of emotion each time a person glances at them.

Exercise: Run, jog, take leisurely walks, ride, play with your kids, stretch, skip or hop around, make sure your body moves. Physical activity is a powerful mood lifter.

Spend money on meaningful thing: Buy tickets for experiences like concerts or a night out with friends. This produces more long lasting positive emotion than buying material things. Spend money for others. Buy small gifts for family and friends.

Exercise your strengths: Know your unique strengths and execute it in daily life. Studies have shown that the more you use your strengths in daily life, the happier you become.