How to be happy Power Rangers costumes, kittens, family and music: readers tell us what makes them happy when times are hard Tweet “Since becoming a dad, my daughter is the one thing that makes my wife and me absolutely over the moon.” David Richards, 35, graphic designer Photograph: Felix Clay “Being with my friends makes me happy… and eating! To stay happy in relationships you have to work as a team – communicate.” Alena Dostalova, 27, saleswoman Photograph: Felix Clay “I work with kids and they uplift me naturally; they do and say the funniest things. I’m happy when my children are happy.” Bonnie Mendoza, 35, teacher Photograph: Felix Clay “Working in my garden keeps me relaxed and content. My partner and I have common interests and goals, and that keeps us happy.” Edward Langille, 50, professor Photograph: Felix Clay “A good marriage keeps you happy. You get more patient and tolerant as you get older.” Fred and Pam Manuell, both 79, retired Photograph: Felix Clay “Advertising has been hit pretty hard, so it’s the simple things that keep me happy: spending time with friends and family.” Ira Joseph, 44, ad executive Photograph: Felix Clay “I like my Power Ranger costume and playing Spiderman in the playground with my friends. And I like ice-cream lots.” Kai Matsushita, 4 Photograph: Felix Clay “Shopping makes me happy. I’ll pamper myself if I feel down. It’s important to take time out and treat yourself.” Kizal Chaudry, 22, student Photograph: Felix Clay “If I’m feeling down, I go for a skate. I felt most happy two weeks ago, on a beach in Montenegro. Travel is great for the mind.” Mark Gray, 26, unemployed Photograph: Felix Clay “I like walking through nice open spaces. And I love what I do; I feel very passionately about my work.” Natasha Okonkwo, 29, mental health worker Photograph: Felix Clay “I love music and performing for people: making them happy makes me happy. And I’m so happy around the woman I love.” Nathan Kell, 26, street performer Photograph: Felix Clay “Work stresses me out, so I’m happy to leave the office and relax at home. Key to a happy relationship? Ask my friend, he’s married!” Rishi Patel, 25, consultant Photograph: Felix Clay “I kite surf in Brighton every weekend. And if I have a low moment, I go for a bicycle ride - I feel much better after that.” Ryan Wepener, 24, project manager Photograph: Felix Clay “I’m happy when I go on big wheels, and I like eating pasta. If I feel sad, I’ll go on a helter-skelter.” Sasha Rudling, with her cousin Sam Sard-Helayel, both 5 Photograph: Felix Clay “I sing in a choir and that has a big impact on my happiness, the creation of something as a group. And I have to mention my kitten, Meg.” Sian Richards, 47, business trainer, 47, business trainer Photograph: Felix Clay