The Results are in - Meaningful Relationships are Important for Human Happiness!

The Harvard Study of Adult Development, the longest-running study on happiness, has followed 724 men since they were teenagers in 1938, with participants coming from a range of socioeconomic backgrounds. The Harvard team has collected a wealth of data over the 74 years, collating all kinds of personal, psychological, and health indicators and outcomes, and asking their families about their mental and emotional health every two years.

The findings from Harvard's study on human happiness are inspiring and offer practical insights into how we can increase our own happiness. The primary takeaways from the study include the importance of forming meaningful connections with people around us, having a sense of purpose, and taking time to appreciate small moments in life.

When it comes to creating meaningful connections, research has shown that feeling affirmed and connected to others can have a huge impact on our overall happiness. Taking the time to nurture these relationships and show appreciation for the people in your life can have a big effect on how content you feel.

Additionally, the study suggests that taking time to appreciate the small moments in life can have a significant effect on how content we feel. Taking just a few moments to notice the beauty in an ordinary day can help shift our outlook and bring moments of peace and tranquility.

Overall, the findings from Harvard's study on human happiness offer practical advice to increase our own happiness. From forming meaningful connections with those around us, to taking time to appreciate the small moments in life, there are many ways to experience greater levels of joy and satisfaction every day.

February is Heart Health month (not to forget Valentine’s Day), and we at GiveWise find that meaningful relationships are a key factor to have a physically and emotionally healthy heart. Combine all of this with thankfulness and generosity, and we have the potential to be our healthiest selves!