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every The most important thing for a human being is happiness. But where does it come from? Is there any relation between money and happiness or not? Is being healthy enough to be happy? To find answers to many such questions, Harvard University started a study in 1938. It was named – Harvard Study of Adult Development.
For this, the physical and emotional health of 724 participants and more than 2000 of their descendants from around the world was monitored from youth to old age. About 60 people from the original group are in their 90s today and are still taking part in the study.
loneliness is deadly
Stay close to your family, friends and community
Studies have shown that people who maintain strong relationships and do things that bring them joy have improved happiness as they age.
Some people earned a lot of money in life, got a higher degree or got a better job, but most of them were either left alone or died prematurely.
On the other hand, there were people who faced very bad situations in their life. Worked in such a job, which may not have paid much, but it gave a meaning to life and he spent quality time with his family. They not only lived longer, but were also relatively happier.
Studies say 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. Loneliness is not just a momentary feeling of emptiness, but it can cause long-term stress. It has the same effect on our health as smoking half a pack of cigarettes every day. It is a slow poison that, if left unchecked, can creep into a life.
Everyone’s life is not always the same. Many circumstances make happiness difficult. These include many things like untimely death of parents, discrimination, child abuse, poverty or illness. But good social relationships make it easier to deal with.
There’s no doubt that money affects your happiness, but only to a certain extent. It cannot guarantee long lasting happiness.
The conclusion says that exercise, good diet and being healthy are not enough for a happy life. These things matter, but what matters even more are good relationships. These are the ones who can give long term happiness. So invest in your closest relationships.
Think about those who care about you most
The study also suggests how to strengthen your close and social relationships, whether at home, with friends, at work or within your communities. Some such suggestions have also been given for this-
- Look within yourself and take stock of 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 relationships and how to move forward to improve them.
- It has been suggested to make a chart in the study. In this, 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 sadness and trouble.
- Prioritize your relationships and be present. This means that when people talk, listen carefully. Express interest and show affection. All of 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 barely notice who and what is around us. When you are with others, take time to give them your full attention. It is a gift to them and to yourself, which increases the warmth of relationships.
- Think about someone who is most special to you. Think about what they mean to you, what they have done for you? Where would you be without them? Who would you have been? Now think about what you would thank them for if you thought you might never see them again. And this moment, right now, turn to Him. Call them and tell them all this.
