7 Harsh Truths From Harvard's 85-Year study of happiness
Hey Friends,
In our pursuit of happiness, we often seek elusive secrets and quick fixes. But what if the key to true fulfillment lies in facing some uncomfortable truths? Harvard's 85-year study on happiness has shed light on several harsh realities that challenge conventional wisdom.
Let's dive into seven of these eye-opening truths:
1. The key to a happy life is quality relationships
Not wealth, not fame.
-Relationships.
It's not the only thing that matters, but time and time again this proved to be the biggest factor.
2. Loneliness is deadly
Loneliness leads to chronic stress.
This can have a similar effect on our health as smoking half a pack of cigarettes per day.
3. Being introverted is not a disadvantage
For relationships:
Quality > Quantity
The study shows that even 1 or 2 close connections is sufficient.
Introversion can even be an ADVANTAGE.
As introverts may not require as many connections to feel fulfilled.
4. Social media can be a double-edged sword
Connection = more happiness
Comparison = less happiness
Using social media to make genuine connections with others can create fulfillment in your life.
If you use it to doomscroll—not so much.
5. Purpose > Payment
Purpose is powerful.
People who have purpose in their work, experience greater life satisfaction
and happiness.
-Whether paid or unpaid.
If your career doesn't provide these feelings-try volunteering for a cause you're passionate about.
6. Taking care of your health is crucial
"A healthy man wants a thousand things - a sick man wants only one."
Unsurprisingly, the people in good health reported much higher levels of life-satisfaction.
7. It's never too late to improve your happiness
50s, 60s, 70s.
It doesn't matter.
Many individuals reported overhauling their happiness later in life after taking conscious action to improve it.
Think it's too late to be happy?
-Think again.
But what about money?
Yes, money impacts our happiness.
But only up to a point.
Better to think of money as a tool that gives us security and a sense of control over our lives, rather than a solution to all of our problems.
✍️ Quote of the Week
“All creativity is inspired by other people’s ideas. The faster you embrace that, the more successful you can be as a creative.”