Studies show that a happy life, with largely positive experiences, seems to be connected with five general areas;
1. Satisfying Social relationships (with generosity and trust).
2. A sense of Purpose.
3. Physical health.
4. A supportive Community.
5. Financial security.
The United States, a mercantile democracy, has gradually allowed business interests to largely define the purpose and direction of our culture. The upside is what we fought for in 1776 — independence and freedom. The downside is long work hours, a limited social support system, and a country where more than half of all families live paycheck to paycheck. The result; too many Americans experience high levels of stress — not the good kind.
While surveys consistently rank the USA around 30th on national happiness, many of our towns and cities do rank high, sometimes equal or higher than top-rated countries* such as Denmark, New Zealand, Singapore, and Costa Rica.
But even if our culture is designed more for business than for people, you can create your own happy life, as millions do. Here are some tips from the Buck Center for Research on Aging in Marin County, California. They echo the general areas above. I’ll call this list, Prescription for a Long and Satisfying Life:
It’s no surprise that these are the same qualities doctors suggest for a healthy life at any age. Reducing stress helps both the mind and body (if there really is such a dichotomy). Follow this list and you’ll reduce illness, live longer, and be happier.
* National Geographic, November 2017 — Different cultures have different ideas about what it means to be happy, to thrive. For example, one cultural theme in Costa Rica is the pleasure of living daily life to the fullest in a country that mitigates stress and maximizes joy. In Denmark, one theme is that governmental systems take care of basic needs so that people can pursue their passions at work and at leisure. Denmark’s comprehensive social support system makes it easy to live a satisfying and interesting life.
I welcome your suggestions, questions, or comments.
Thank you for visiting,
me, Barry Phegan, June 2019
