Happiness is defined as a state of contentment. This is different from pleasure or positive emotions.
Happiness feels good and research shows it benefits your health, boosts productivity and enhances relationships. But it isn’t a goal you can just “get to”.
Happiness requires intentionality. It’s like keeping a full tank of fuel.
You’re Full of Love
Happiness is a global pursuit and the goal of many people across the world. Philosophers, theologians, economists and psychologists have tried to pin down the definition of happiness for years. A whole branch of psychology – positive psychology – is dedicated to the quest. More than just a fleeting feeling, happiness is a state of well being that encompasses feelings of peace, contentment, and joy in life. Happiness also includes a sense of purpose and meaning in life. It’s an electrifying state that has health perks too. Feelings of positivity and joy are associated with better immune system function, lower inflammation levels and a longer lifespan.
Happiness has a ripple effect that affects the people around you. Your immediate family and friends benefit from your state of happiness as well as the neighbours, store workers and complete strangers that you encounter on a daily basis. Happiness is not only within reach, but it can be found through a variety of activities such as building relationships with family and friends, exploring personal interests, prioritizing self-care and finding a life’s purpose.
You’re Full of Energy
Happiness is a powerhouse of positive emotions that can propel you to achieve your goals, feel more balanced and energized, and enjoy richer relationships. This sense of contentment also benefits your health by lowering your heart rate and blood pressure and increasing your immune system and energy levels.
People from around the world strive for happiness, a state that can seem elusive and ephemeral. Happiness is a broad concept and can include feelings like joy, peace, a sense of inner fulfillment, and a life with meaning.
Focus on building healthy habits like getting enough sleep and exercising, and eat a balanced diet. Surround yourself with positive people, and practice empathy by expressing concern for others. If you’re feeling blue, try a mood-boosting activity, such as reading or listening to calming music. Spending time in nature can also help recharge your batteries. The key is to find what makes you happy and keep it in your life, even if it changes over time.
You’re Full of Purpose
The feeling of a purposeful life is a key to happiness. It gives you a reason to get out of bed in the morning and a sense that your efforts are making a difference in people’s lives. It’s the motivation behind why you go to work, spend time with your friends and family and engage in hobbies.
A growing body of research suggests that a positive outlook has real-world benefits, including increased career success, healthier and deeper relationships and even longer lifespans. It also has a ripple effect that touches the lives of those around you, from your loved ones to random strangers you encounter.
Getting intentional about your happiness will take discipline and hard work, but the rewards are well worth it. Pursuing goals that align with your values, like focusing on experiences over possessions, will have greater happiness payoffs than pursuing status or wealth. Just remember to stay fueled by a healthy diet of self-care, sleep and exercise.
You’re Full of Life
Happiness feels great, and that’s a good thing because it leads to greater success in work and life, healthier relationships, better health and a longer lifespan. But it’s more than that: When you radiate happiness, those around you feel positive and inspired – your partner, friends and children as well as coworkers, neighbors and even strangers in the street or the grocery store benefit from your positivity.
Happiness is a state of being, a combination of emotions and experiences that bring a sense of inner fulfillment and contentment. It can ebb and flow, depending on what’s happening in your life.
To boost your happiness levels, start by identifying things that make you happy. These could include favorite hobbies, cherished memories, a peaceful place or even people you cherish. Then try to add one or more of these activities or experiences to your life this week. It’s also important to take care of yourself, so focus on getting enough rest and managing stress.