Dr. Dan Baker is a medical psychologist and author of the book What Happy People Know: How The Science of Happiness Can Change Your Life For The Better. And he says there are some common false beliefs that get in the way of happiness. But once you recognize them, you’ll be able to ditch ‘em for good and turn your attitude around. Here they are, courtesy of the Bottom Line Personal.

• “I’ve been victimized.” The world puts obstacles in everybody’s path. But when you hold onto the hurt, it keeps you feeling passive and powerless. So stop being a victim and start taking charge of your life.
• “I’m entitled to more.” When you feel like you have it coming to you – whether it’s money, love, respect or so on – you become resentful when you don’t get it. And here’s a newsflash – you WON’T always get it. Rather than feel like you’re “entitled” to something, you need to adjust your attitude and work HARDER for it.
• “I’ll be rescued.” Counting on someone else to help solve your problems will only leave you feeling helpless and inadequate. So, figure out what you did wrong that got you where you are, and come up with your own escape route.
• “Someone else is to blame.” When you lay responsibility for your misfortunes on other people, you hand over what power you DO have. If you want to make things right, you have to stop pointing fingers and use the skills you have to make things better. Take responsibility for your own life – that’s the only way to feel in control and to make change.

The bottom line is this: If you want to be happy, stop focusing on what’s WRONG. Concentrate on what’s RIGHT - and do more of it. If you’d like to go further, the book again is What Happy People Know: How The Science of Happiness Can Change Your Life For The Better. It’s by Dr. Dan Baker.