It is difficult to obtain concrete evidence about what makes people happy. But there is a study that has examined happiness since the 1930s and, after decades of research, has had its results published in a new book, “The Good Life”.
The “Harvard Study of Adult Development,” led by professors Robert Waldinger and Marc Schulz, studied the same 700 people and their families over time to determine what makes people thrive.
“We learned that people believe happiness is something they can achieve — if they buy that house, get a promotion, or lose enough weight, happiness will come. But the data clearly shows that this is simply not true. And that’s good, because contentment is no longer something out of reach, but eminently achievable for all of us.”
According to the study, it is primarily the relationships and connections you establish that lead people to happiness. Whether in the form of friendships, book clubs, romantic relationships, religious groups, sports partners, or coworkers.
And more. Relationships not only make people more satisfied but also healthier. People with the strongest social ties and connections in their 50s were in better shape in their 80s.
One of the main conclusions of the study is that money does not make people happy, nor does their social or professional status.
The authors of the study summarize: “Good relationships keep us happier and healthier. Period.”
Source: Forbes