Sharing – What 85 years of research says is the real key to happiness

“We can make ourselves more likely to be happy by building a life that includes the conditions that make for happiness.”

https://bigthink.com/series/full-interview/robert-waldinger-happiness/

This is an interesting and deep look at what makes us happy throughout our lives. You may not be surprised to know that connection comes up often as a predictor of happiness. Listen to the whole thing.

What I found particularly insightful was the idea of checking in with yourself and asking the question, “Do I have what I need?”

It’s easy to say we all need more connection, but the right amount for me, as an introvert, might look very different from others. Not to mention that the kinds of connections may look very different as well. I was talking with someone the other day about an upcoming conference we will both be attending, and how I look forward to the conference, but generally don’t go to the parties in the evening. I relish the chance to sit down with a small group or chat one-on-one over a coffee, but the large, loud group atmospheres don’t do it for me. I know others who can’t wait to hit the parties and reconnect with everyone at the event.

We’re different like that. The details of connection that make us happy are different, but the one thing we have in common is the need for connections of all kinds. We harm ourselves and others when we don’t seek to make a connection. If we want a happier world, we need to stop finding reasons to avoid people and find ways to connect with people, even those who are not like us.