For many decades – since the beginning of psychology as a discipline in the mid to late 1800s – much of our focus has been on pathology. It is time to change that.
Psychologists have arrived at some surprising conclusions in their search for predictors of happiness. Some of the most obvious factors – wealth, for example – don’t seem to play a major role.
Work
Many people struggle with their work. They feel that they are not productive enough or that their job is meaningless. While some problems at work are out of our control, focusing on what we can change is very helpful.
Happiness can be a powerful motivator, but it is not the only thing that matters. Philosophers have long debated what role happiness should play in our lives. The most prominent accounts are hedonism and the life satisfaction theory.
Other scholars have offered more comprehensive models of happiness, such as Barbara Fredrickson’s “positivity” theory, which includes hedonia and eudaimonia. Fredrickson believes that the function of positive emotions is to broaden one’s thinking and build one’s resources. This can lead to new interests, skills, relationships, and physical health.
Relationships
Research has proven that satisfying relationships are essential to happiness. Whether they are romantic, family or friends, positive connections provide an emotional connection, love, and support. Strained relationships can also be a major source of stress, causing poor sleep, increased heart disease, disrupted immune system and depression.
A decades-long Harvard study revealed that people who have warm, supportive relationships with close friends and family are happier and healthier than those who do not. Ali Rogin talks with Robert Waldinger, the director of the study, about what it takes to nurture the relationships in your life.
But, remember that relationships don’t make you happy—being happy inside yourself first is the key to happiness in a relationship. Putting too much expectation on others to make you happy can lead to frustration, control issues, jealousy and insecurity.
Health
Having good health is a critical component to happiness. People who are healthy are able to enjoy their lives more, and they also have a stronger immune system which makes them less likely to get sick. There is even a connection between happiness and longevity. In one famous study referred to as the “nun study,” researchers found that nuns who kept journals of their happiness throughout the years outlived their unhappiness-prone counterparts by 10 – 15 years!
Healthy habits like getting enough sleep, putting away screens, eating well and exercising regularly not only promote happiness but can lead to healthier weight, a lower risk of heart disease, better immunity, more energy, more positive relationships and an overall higher quality of life. Happiness can even make you a more effective leader!
Spirituality
Spirituality refers to a worldview that suggests there is more to life than what is experienced on the physical and sensory level. It may include beliefs and practices around a higher power, connections with others, or a pursuit of self-improvement.
A growing body of research shows a link between spirituality and well-being, particularly during stressful times. It provides a sense of hope, purpose, peace and meaning that can improve your ability to cope with stress.
Studies also show that those who are spiritual often have a stronger social support network and a longer life expectancy. They are also more likely to be able to put adversity into perspective and use it as a way to grow. It’s important to remember that not all spirituality is the same and that it shouldn’t be used as a scapegoat for negative emotions or experiences.
Environment
People are on average one to two percentage points happier when they are outdoors in green or blue spaces, compared with indoor environments. This effect size is larger than for most other leisure activities, including walking, hiking, gardening, and sporting events.
The impact of nature on happiness also differs by location and type of environment. For example, people are happier at natural coasts and in areas with low-lying natural vegetation. The naturalness of the environment – whether it is thought to be peaceful or fascinating – predicts happiness much more than its scenic beauty.
In a similar way, the kind of community you choose to surround yourself with can make or break your happiness. Seek out people who encourage your personal development and have an inexhaustible love for life.