HAPPINESS

By Nina Chen, Ph.D.
Human Development Specialist

Are you happy with your life, family, and work? Do you think if you had more money you would be the happiest person in the world?  The answer is no.  A lot of lottery winners were not happy about their lives.  Obviously, money can push you to unhappiness.

Can your attitudes, beliefs, and ways of living influence your feelings of happiness? Research shows that people who like to help others, do volunteer work, exercise regularly, and have a purpose in life and positive attitudes are happier than people who lack these components. Some studies also indicate that good and close relationships, and religious beliefs are very important emotional and spiritual supports to have a happy life.

Can older people be happy too? Sure, even if older people retire from their jobs, they still can be active and busy. This is the way to keep happiness. I did two studies on older people’s life experiences. The results have proven the facts of happy aging.  Finally, smiles and laughter play an important role in people’s lives.  Try to smile and find some funny sides of life to laugh at every day. These attitudes will cheer you up and bring happiness to your life.

I recently saw a report from the TV program on “Good Morning America.” They gave nine principles of happiness. I think it is very appropriate to share with our readers. The principles are as follows:

          H         Happy genes
          A         Altruism
          P          Purpose in life
          P          Positive attitudes
          I           Intimate relationships
          N         Never retire
          E          Exercise
          S          Spiritual life
          S          Smile

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