Though most of us spend a lifetime pursuing happiness, new research is showing that that goal may be largely out of our control. Two new studies this month add to a growing body of evidence that factors like genes and age may impact our general well-being more than our best day-to-day attempts at joy.

In one study, researchers at the University of Edinburgh suggest that genes account for about 50% of the variation in people's levels of happiness -- the underlying determinant being genetically determined personality traits, like "being sociable, active, stable, hardworking and conscientious," says co-author Timothy Bates. What's more, says Bates, these happiness traits generally come as a package, so that if you have one you're likely to have them all.

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To see what makes some of our HuffPost contributors happy, click here and here.

Or, if you find preordained happiness a little hard to swallow, check out this article on why your happiness is actually unpredictable.

UPDATE: The BBC published a story today on the effect religion has on happiness. Apparently:

Religious people are better able to cope with shocks such as losing a job or divorce, claims the study presented to a Royal Economic Society conference. Data from thousands of Europeans revealed higher levels of "life satisfaction" in believers.

So, do you agree or disagree? What makes you happy? Are any of you readers at the "global happiness nadir" of 44, and yet happier than ever? Do you believe in god? What effect does your belief / disbelief have on your happiness? Tell us your thoughts below.