Live Longer Habits

A State of Perfect Happiness

Happiness is really beneficial. It gives us a positive outlook, helps us feel good about life, and this joy can spread to others around us. A recent study shows that people usually try to find happiness in three key ways: by helping others, by doing things they are skilled at, and by engaging in activities that improve their well-being. 

Interestingly, those who see the glass as half full tend to be the happiest overall. Furthermore, happiness is closely linked to how satisfied we are with our jobs, our closest relationships, and how well we take care of ourselves both physically and emotionally.  

What This Means for You 

- Choose happiness in everything you do. 

- Invest in your closest relationships. 

- Look after your physical, financial, and emotional health.

Choose happiness in everything you do. 

When it comes to work and money, it turns out that feeling good about your job, income, and wealth matters much more than the actual amount you have. For instance: 

- 47% of very happy people enjoy what they do, compared to 14% of others. 

- 62% of extremely happy individuals expect to avoid a mid-life crisis, while 38% of everyone else doesn't feel that way. 

- 49% of those who are very happy are already following their dreams—only 18% of others can say the same. 

- 67% of very happy people say that this period in their lives is their happiest, while only 20% of others feel that way. 

Strengthen Your Closest Relationships 

The best way to boost your happiness is to nurture your closest relationships, whether with a partner, parent, sibling, or friend. Here are some surprising facts: 

- 75% of very happy people rate their intimate relationships as very important, compared to 49% of everyone else. 

- 77% of the happiest individuals say their relationship is either the "greatest" or "very good," while only 48% of others feel the same. 

Take Care of Yourself 

Looking after yourself is essential for happiness. We know that regular exercise contributes to good health, and it's true for the happiest people too: 

- 78% of very happy people exercise at least three times a week, while only 57% of others do (and some may not be honest about it). 

- 93% of those extremely happy feel they are in excellent or very good health, compared to 74% of others. 

- 68% of them feel they are on track for retirement, compared to 49% of everyone else.

- Only 10% of the happiest feel stressed, while 42% of others do. 

- 44% of those very happy say they have a good work-life balance, while just 13% of others think the same. 

How Happiness Affects Your Health 

For most people, happiness brings a sense of purpose and well-being, which can positively impact both physical and mental health, including: 

- Opening your mind to positivity:

Feeling optimistic is crucial for your well-being. 

- Boosting problem-solving skills:

Happy people tend to believe they can achieve their goals. 

- Building valuable resources:

Positive-minded people learn better and connect with others who uplift them. 

- Protecting your health: 

Happiness reduces the risk of heart disease, lowers blood pressure, enhances sleep, improves your diet, helps maintain a healthy weight, and lowers stress. 

Tips for Improving Your Well-Being 

Research suggests that you can improve your well-being through practice: 

- Resilience: Learn to bounce back from tough times. 

- Positive outlook: Try to see the good in people and experiences. 

- Focus and attention: Being present and listening well can help you feel more positive. 

- Generosity: Kind acts bring joy to both you and others. 

Your happiness is not a mystery. Understand what works for you and what doesn’t, and remove anything that blocks your happiness. Be satisfied with your life choices, as your well-being depends on it.

Source: healthbeat, forbes