The most important thing for every human being is happiness. But where does it come from? Is there any relation between money and happiness or not? Is physical fitness enough to be happy? Harvard University started a study in 1938 to get answers to many such questions. It was named – Harvard Study of Adult Development.
For this, the physical and emotional health of 724 participants from around the world and more than 2000 of their descendants were monitored from youth to old age. About 60 people from the original group have reached the age of 90 today and are still participating in the study.
Loneliness is deadly
Stay close to your family, friends and society Studies have found that people who maintain strong relationships and do things that make them happy also live longer.
Some people earned a lot of money in life, got high degrees or got good jobs, but most of them either became lonely or died prematurely.
On the other hand, there were people who faced very bad situations in their life. Worked in a job that may not have paid much, but gave life meaning and he spent quality time with his family. Not only did they live longer, but they were also relatively happier.
Studies show that people who are more connected to family, friends and community live happier and physically healthier lives than those who are less connected.
Loneliness can kill you It is important to understand that loneliness is different from 'solitude'. Solitude is a positive word because it involves a sense of choice. While loneliness is not just a fleeting feeling of emptiness, it can cause long-term stress. As much as smoking half a pack of cigarettes a day affects our health, loneliness is a slow poison that can creep into life if left unchecked.
Everyone's life is not always the same. Many circumstances make happiness difficult. It includes many things like premature death of parents, discrimination, child abuse, poverty or illness. But good social relations make it easier to get out of trouble.
There is no doubt that money affects your happiness, but only to a certain extent. It cannot guarantee long-term happiness.
In conclusion, exercise, good diet and being healthy are not enough for a happy life. Those things are important, but even more important are good relationships. These are the ones that can provide long term happiness. So invest in your closest relationships.
Think about those who care about you the most The study also suggests how to strengthen your close and social relationships, whether at home, with friends, at work or in your community. Some suggestions have also been given for this-
- Look within yourself and know the situation. In the busyness of life, sometimes we are unable to assess the health of our relationships. Take time to consider the current situation. This helps us understand where we are neglecting our relationship and how to move forward to improve it.
- The study suggests making a chart. Make a list of the most special people in your life. Then see how you relate to them? How much time do you spend with them? This will help you decide whether to spend more time with people who make you laugh or make you happy and less time with people who cause you pain and trouble.
- Prioritize your relationships and be present. This means that when people talk, listen carefully. Show interest and show affection. All these things can make even small conversations with others more meaningful and beneficial for everyone.
- Many of us spend our free time on social media or hardly pay attention to who and what is around us. When you are with other people, take the time to give them your undivided attention. It is a gift to them and to you, which increases the warmth of the relationship.
- Think of the person most special to you. Think about what it means to you to have them, how much do they mean to you? Where would you be without them? who would you be Now think about why you would thank them if you thought you might never see them again. And at this moment, turn to them right now. Call them and tell them all this.
Image Credit: (Divya-Bhaskar): Images/graphics belong to (Divya-Bhaskar).
