2. KEEP ACTIVE Nic Marks is the founder of the Happy Planet Index, which tracks national well-being around the world. One of the most important ways to improve well-being, he believes, is to keep active-healthy people are happier people. "The fastest way out of a bad mood," Marks to “step outside, go for a walk, turn the radio on and dance. Being active is great for our positive mood." Being close to nature can also boost happiness. "Our pleasures are really ancient," says psychologist Nancy Etcoff. “We have a response to the natural world that's very profound." Walking a pet in the outdoors, for example, can improve our mood. Pets not only encourage their owners to be healthy, they also provide love and friendship, increasing their owners' self-esteem. says,