Individuals Who Grasp Authentic Happiness Often Adhere to These 11 Reality-Based Principles in Psychological Perspective
In the quest for a happy life, psychology and relationship experts have identified several crucial factors that contribute to genuine happiness. These elements, rooted in both research and expert consensus, offer a roadmap for a more fulfilling existence.
According to a survey of relationship experts, positive relationships are paramount. Good relationships with parents, meaningful friendships, and a strong bond with oneself are essential. Nurturing social connections influences emotional well-being and perceptions of life challenges, significantly contributing to happiness [2].
Having a good relationship with oneself, often through self-compassion and self-reflection, is one of the most important contributors to happiness. This includes checking in with oneself regularly to recognise moments of contentment and practising kindness towards oneself [2].
Engagement and meaning are also vital components of happiness. Martin Seligman’s PERMA theory posits that five elements lead to flourishing: Positive Emotion, Engagement, Relationships, Meaning, and Accomplishment. These create a broad foundation for thriving and well-being beyond transient pleasure [1].
Physical and mental health also play a significant role in happiness. Excellent health in childhood and maintaining good health are fundamental contributors to happiness. Hormonal balance involving dopamine, serotonin, oxytocin, and endorphins also plays a critical role in regulating pleasure, mood, social bonding, and stress reduction, underpinning feelings of happiness [1][3].
Marriage and religious attendance, both in adulthood and childhood, have been shown to correlate positively with happiness across cultures, likely due to social support and shared values. Research from the Pew Research Center supports this, finding that people who are active in religious congregations tend to be happier and more civically engaged than either religiously unaffiliated adults or inactive members of religious groups [6].
Modern research highlights that happiness can be shaped intentionally by reshaping thought patterns. Mastering one’s mindset through clinical techniques and resilience-building provides a practical path to lasting emotional well-being, indicating the power of internal cognitive factors [5].
However, it's important to note that the correlation between money and happiness can be deceptive. A study from the National Academy of Sciences of the United States of America suggests that the difference between income and wealth should be considered [7].
Life coach Kelly Rudolph emphasises that happiness is influenced by several factors, one of which is personality type. Social connections are important; they'll influence the way you view the problems in your life, and whether you'll feel you can accomplish goals or shouldn't even bother [8].
Research suggests that women are at greater risk for anxiety and depression than men, and men are at greater risk for alcohol-use disorders than women [4]. Yet, 49% of experts agree that women cope with unhappy situations better than men do [4].
Interestingly, 33% of experts believe that people over the age of 60 are the happiest [4]. However, a 2015 Harvard University study found that loneliness, social isolation, and living alone are associated with a 26%, 29%, and 32% increase in the risk of premature death, respectively [5].
In conclusion, real happiness depends on a combination of strong, supportive relationships; healthy self-regard; fulfilling engagement and meaning; physical and emotional health; and intentional mindset cultivation, as supported by psychological research and expert consensus [1][2][5].
- Cultivating a strong connection with oneself, often through self-compassion and self-reflection, ranks as one of the most important contributors to genuine happiness [2].
- Engaging in activities that bring meaning and purpose, as suggested by Martin Seligman’s PERMA theory, are crucial elements for flourishing and overall well-being [1].
- Positive relationships, such as those with family, friends, and oneself, significantly contribute to happiness and emotional well-being [2].
- Marriage and religious attendance, both in childhood and adulthood, have been shown to have a positive impact on happiness, likely due to social support and shared values [6].
- Achieving emotional well-being can be shaped intentionally by developing a resilient mindset through clinical techniques and continuous self-development [5].
- In the realm of lifestyle choices, focusing on personal growth through education, self-development, and even hobbies like fashion-and-beauty, food-and-drink, and leisure activities can further enhance one’s happiness and well-being [8].
