Several people define happiness in various ways. Positive emotions have a tendency to make us happy. That is the essence of what makes us happy.
Each person has their own way of defining happiness. Whatever your definition of happiness, the fact remains that it is essential for a happy and successful life.
Importance of Happiness
While it's crucial to understand that we cannot and should not try to be "happy" all the time, our well-being depends on occasionally feeling pleased.
Happiness can have many benefits for individuals and society, such as enhancing health, productivity, creativity, generosity, and coping skills.
However, happiness is not a fixed or permanent trait; it can change over time and vary depending on the situation.
How can we improve our happiness?
There are many ways we can build and maintain our own happiness and wellbeing, such as:
- Fostering an attitude of gratitude
- Helping others
- Keeping active and caring for our physical health with good sleep and exercise
- Connecting with our community
Helping others DOES make us happier
According to research from Oxford University, doing good deeds like holding the door open for someone or giving to charity makes the doer feel happy.
Volunteers helping to pick up rubbish on the streets. Photo: Freepik
Researcher Dr. Oliver Scott Curry said that while self-help manuals may proclaim that helping others has an impact akin to a 'wonder drug on mood, it's more like the effect of a paracetamol.'
Good deeds needn't take much time or cost any money. So if you want to feel good, do good!