How can we become happier in our lives, and what do we need to stay happy?
Researchers have put a lot of effort into answering these
questions and came up with some interesting facts that define the scientific
basis of the so-called ‘positive psychology’. Today we know that about 50% of
one’s happiness depends on his or her genes. About 10-15% are a result of
different measurable life circumstances variables, such as socioeconomic status,
marital status, health, income, sex, age and others. Research in the US, for
instance, has found that older Americans are generally happier than younger
adults, or that 28% of those with an annual income of $35,000 described
themselves as happy while 38% were of those bringing home $75,000 or more a
year.
The remaining 40% of factors influencing happiness, however,
are mostly the results of actions that individuals deliberately engage in to
become happier. This is also where we can deliberately start to change something
right away: physical exercise or eating chocolate, for example, are both proven
to release endorphines which make us feel more energetic and happy. Proximity to
other happy people was also found to be an important factor - if we have a
tendency to isolate ourselves or to get stuck in negative emotions out of an
inability to communicate them effectively or to resolve difficult situations, it
comes as no surprise that happiness will not be a frequent visitor in our homes.
Even worse: if conflicts are not resolved, we frequently end up in a downward
spiral that can cause chronic distress, frustration and anger, and ultimately
develop psychosomatic illness.
There is also extensive research data available now
suggesting that religious people are happier and less stressed. It is not clear,
however, whether this is because of the social contact and support that result
from religious activities, the greater likelihood of behaviors related to good
health (such as less substance abuse), or of a generally greater peace of mind
(‘reason for being’, ‘life after death’). However, in countries where being
without religion is not unusual, the happiness rates have to be found higher as
well. So there is still much to be learned about the factors that influence
happiness - but while we wait for the results, we can still aspire to improve
the 40% we have control over.
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Live the happy life you planned! Richard L.
Fellner is head of the Counseling Center Pattaya in Soi Kopai and
offers consultations in English and German languages after making an
appointment at 0854 370 470. |
