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Why be happy?

Happiness, Lifestyle, Decisions

Everybody wants to be happy, but how is happiness defined and why is it good for us?

In 2008, a researcher published a book on happiness. Her definition of happiness impressed me so much, that I thought I would share it with you today.

This is how Sonya Lyubomirsky defined happiness…

“the experience of joy, contentment, or positive well-being, combined with a sense that one’s life is good, meaningful, and worthwhile”

According to her research, being happy is associated with…

  • better physical health
  • better mental health
  • better immune system
  • longevity
  • more energy
  • loving relationships
  • prosperity
  • stronger social support
  • generosity and being more charitable
  • better coping mechanisms
  • a positive state of mind
  • better learning
  • creativity

The interesting thing is that research has shown that material things do not make people happier. The wealthiest countries in the world do not have the happiest people in the world.