Gross National Happines, uses figures to measure people's happiness. The system was first put forward by the King of Bhutan in 1972. In February, China.org.cn polled 100 people to calculate the happiness index of a small city — Huaibei, Anhui Province.

The first question of the questionnaire was: did you feel happy in 2009? The results showed that 70 percent of the people considered themselves happy. In 2009, what made people most happy? A sample of the responses:

? A retired teacher: "I think my happiest thing in 2009 is my whole family is happy and harmonious".

? A 50-year-old public servant: "My happiest thing is that I moved to a new house".

? A graduate student: "Finding my soul mate was my happiest thing in 2009".

? A laid-off worker: "I think my happiest thing is my daughter has found an ideal job after graduation from college".

? A single white-collar worker: "Good health is my happiest thing in 2009".

In the investigation, 70 percent of those surveyed said they were satisfied with their jobs and 60 percent felt satisfaction with their housing condition. Another 60 percent said they were confident about their futures, and almost all felt a strong sense of security and identity in Huaibei.

The survey also showed some concerns of Huaibei's residents. People worried about their livelihood, rising housing prices, food safety, inadequate social protection and education.

Night scene of Huabei, Anhui Province.