Times are tough. The stock market is riding a roller coaster and we're in the midst of a very contentious election with both sides certain that their unless their candidate is elected, the world as we know it will cease to exist.

So how do we stay happy when the world around us seems to be falling apart?

My advise is to make your own music and dance to it. I've listed a few ideas to help you create your own joyful melody.

1. Everyday before you get out of bed, think of at least 6 things you are grateful for. If you learned today was your last day, think of all the things you'd miss.

2. Smile - at everyone. What are you saving your smiles for?

3. Turn off the news. There have always been bad things happening but we didn't used to have it broadcast 24/7. Good things are happening as well but no one ever talks about them.

4. Laugh and choose to be happy. The world goes on regardless of our frame of mind so choose happiness.

5. Attend the religious services of your choice...people with faith are much happier than those without.

6. Donate some of your time to a charitable cause that moves you, such as helping someone learn to read.

7. Lend a helping hand to someone - mow a neighbor's grass, buy a homeless person a meal - and don't expect a payback. Do it because it's the right thing to do.

8. When you hear negative news, counter it with positive thoughts. Negative isn't being realistic, it's being negative. So be positive. Remember those crazy Wright brothers who were silly enough to think they could fly.

9. Ask yourself - is the world a better place if I'm miserable and disgruntled or happy and look at things in a positive light?

10. Live in the moment. I know you've heard this countless time before but remember, there is no guaranty any of us will be here tomorrow.

11. Make a commitment to be happy and start living that commitment right this minute.