Understanding the Meaning of Happiness
Everyone seeks happiness, but what does it truly mean to be happy? According to research published in Applied Psychology: Health and Well-Being in 2017, happiness influences nearly every aspect of our lives, from physical and mental health to emotional well-being. However, defining happiness isn’t as simple as one might think.
Psychologists generally define happiness as a measure of subjective well-being, explains Heather Lyons, a licensed psychologist from the Baltimore Therapy Group in Maryland. This refers to how people personally assess the quality of their own lives. In essence, happiness is a personal judgment.
A Personal Journey of Contentment
There isn’t a universal definition of happiness that applies to everyone, says Sherry Benton, founder and chief science officer at TAO Connect. For some, happiness is linked to contentment and satisfaction with life. Biologically, happiness is associated with the release of dopamine, the brain’s neurotransmitter that stimulates feelings of pleasure.
“Happiness doesn’t require perfection,” Benton adds. “In fact, the pursuit of perfection can diminish our sense of well-being. Happiness is more about a daily practice of choosing thoughts and actions that align with our values and bring us joy.”
She also cautions against focusing on external rewards, like promotions or material possessions, as these provide only fleeting moments of happiness. Over time, constantly seeking external validation can lead to dissatisfaction, Benton warns. Long-lasting happiness stems from internal contentment.
Measuring Happiness: A Subjective Experience
Unlike blood pressure or heart rate, happiness cannot be measured with a physical test. However, experts have developed several tools to help individuals gauge their own happiness levels.
Heather Lyons suggests asking yourself key questions: Are you living according to your values? Are you nurturing supportive, reciprocal relationships? Do you take time to appreciate your blessings?
Psychologists like Sonja Lyubomirsky from the University of California, Riverside, have developed subjective happiness scales, such as the Subjective Happiness Scale, to offer individuals insight into their personal happiness levels. These scales often ask people to rate their feelings on a scale, providing a sense of where they stand emotionally.
The Positive Impact of Happiness on Life
Happiness isn’t just a warm, fuzzy feeling—it’s scientifically linked to better life outcomes. According to studies from Lyubomirsky’s Positive Activities and Well-Being Laboratory, people who report higher levels of happiness tend to:
- Earn higher incomes
- Produce better work results
- Maintain longer, more fulfilling relationships
- Enjoy greater social support and richer social interactions
- Live longer and healthier lives
- Exude self-confidence, creativity, and generosity
Although happiness isn’t a guaranteed path to success, feeling good about life can lead to healthier decisions and improved well-being. For instance, happier people may find it easier to commit to regular exercise or maintain a balanced diet. One study published in the Journal of Experimental Psychology found that young adults who felt grateful in daily life exhibited healthier eating habits.
Other research highlights how simple acts of kindness can improve immune function, potentially lowering the risk of certain diseases.
How to Boost Happiness: Practical Steps
Although genetics and circumstances play a role in determining happiness, experts agree there are concrete steps we can take to enhance our sense of well-being.
- Practice Gratitude: Writing down or reflecting on things you’re thankful for can rewire your brain to focus more on positive thoughts.
- Be Kind: Engaging in acts of kindness boosts not only your own happiness but can also improve the health of your immune system.
- Strengthen Social Connections: Whether through a Zoom call or a conversation with a neighbour, human interaction significantly raises dopamine levels, contributing to a happier mood.
- Live According to Your Values: Reflect on what truly matters to you, and make sure your daily actions align with those principles.
- Savour Positive Experiences: Allow yourself to fully experience and enjoy the good moments in life. Relishing these instances contributes to overall happiness.
The Link Between Happiness and Success
While many people believe success leads to happiness, the science suggests it’s often the other way around. Lyons explains that happiness is a precursor to success because it fosters learning, personal growth, and the building of broader social networks. Happier individuals are more likely to explore new opportunities and develop resilience, which ultimately leads to success.
When to Seek Help
For some, achieving happiness can feel elusive, particularly when negative feelings persist for long periods. If you notice a pattern of sadness, apathy, or difficulty experiencing joy for two weeks or more, it may be time to consult a mental health professional. These persistent feelings may be a sign of depression or other mental health concerns, Lyons suggests.
Conclusion
Happiness is more than a fleeting emotion—it’s a skill that can be cultivated through daily practices. From fostering gratitude and nurturing relationships to living in alignment with personal values, anyone can take steps to improve their overall sense of well-being. While external circumstances certainly play a role, we have more control over our happiness than we might realise.
Embrace the small things, focus on your values, and remember that happiness, in many ways, is within your reach.
