It is very challenging to stay happy and optimistic as we face everyday issues in our lives. Good thing there are happy quotes to help us survive the growing plague around us called cynicism. Not only these famous happy quotes will improve your energy and enthusiasm, you will also become more optimistic about your relationships, work, family and life in general.

Happy quotes inspire us to take time to enjoy the world that we're in before it's too late. Sometimes we get bogged down in the rat race and forget to stop and smell the roses.

A number of studies prove that becoming an optimist will make you a less prone to depression or anxiety, be more successful, and a lot healthier both physically and mentally.

These happy quotes from the likes of Gandhi, Dalai Lama, and other famous people will refresh your determination and drive to stay positive and succeed in your goals. Here are 10 famous happy quotes that will surely open up your mind and heart:

"The best way to cheer yourself up is to try to cheer somebody else up.” (Mark Twain)

“If you want to be happy, be.” (Leo Tolstoy)

“Nothing can bring you happiness but yourself.” (Ralph Waldo Emerson)

“Happiness is not a goal; it is a by - product.” (Eleanor Roosevelt)

“Man is fond of counting his troubles, but he does not count his joys. If he counted them up as he ought to, he would see that every lot has enough happiness provided for it.” (Fyodor Dostoevsky)

“Don't rely on someone else for your happiness and self worth. Only you can be responsible for that. If you can't love and respect yourself - no one else will be able to make that happen. Accept who you are - completely; the good and the bad - and make changes as YOU see fit - not because you think someone else wants you to be different.” (Stacey Charter)

“Happiness is like a butterfly which, when pursued, is always beyond our grasp, but, if you will sit down quietly, may alight upon you.” (Nathaniel Hawthorne)

“If you want others to be happy, practice compassion. If you want to be happy, practice compassion.” (Dalai Lama)

“Happiness is a Swedish sunset; it is there for all, but most of us look the other way and lose it.” (Mark Twain)

“The world is full of people looking for spectacular happiness while they snub contentment.” (Doug Larson)

If you surround yourself with inspiring happy quotes like the ones written above then having a better attitude will soon come naturally. These act as your shield against the negative news out there. With better attitude you will feel like you’re ready to face the world bravely.

Reflecting on these happy quotes is just the first step on becoming a true optimist. The most important thing is you exercise these insights to your personal life as well as affect the people around you.