What’s the secret to happiness?
There have been countless studies and reports aimed at discovering the answer. The latest finding on the subject is a 72-year-old study that started back in 1937 at Harvard University. It involved 268 students who were asked to participate in a study that would measure the “ideal mix of love, work, and adaptation for a good life.”
The participants continue to be followed as they grow old and die, and the study has been maintained to this day. And the lessons learned from the results are illuminating…
First, the happiest people in the study had a healthy outlet for their fears, doubts, and struggles. They funneled their energy into sports, were altruistic, or had a good sense of humor. The study found that people can get away with fears and worries for years, but eventually they’ll crack. So if you haven’t done it already, develop an outlet: find a sport, commit to helping others, lighten up, and laugh more often. Great advice.
Next, don’t take life too seriously. We all have weaknesses, but do you really want to do battle with your dark side year after year? Maybe it’s time to lay down your arms, take a deep breath, and enjoy life. It’s shorter than you think.
And finally, happiness must be shared. The movie Into The Wild, adapted from the excellent book by Jon Krakauer, tells the true story of Chris McCandless, who sold all his belongings and ventured into the wilderness. He wrote these last words in his journal before dying of starvation, “Happiness only real when shared.” The 72-year-old study found the same truth: people who spent too much time alone struggled. The happiest subjects were the ones who sustained healthy, meaningful relationships with family and friends. You can never give enough hugs or say “I Love You” too often.
So give someone a hug today. A good hug is a tonic. Take a deep breath. And remember to laugh. You can read an article that gives a great summation of the study here.
Do these findings ring true for you? Is there a secret to happiness? Is our culture obsessed with it? Please leave your thoughts and observations in the Comments section.
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