As humans, we often find ourselves navigating a maze of desires, achievements and experiences, all in search of that elusive joy. For a long time, researchers and thinkers have wondered about what makes people happy. What exactly are the factors that influence our happiness? Mary Chelladurai, counsellor and executive trustee of AINA Trust, a Bangalore-based charitable organisation, elaborates, “All of us seek happiness in life. The question is what makes one happy? A delicious meal, a great outfit, a place where eyes don’t turn away from us, a flashy car, an international trip, a huge bank balance? The material list can go on. Happiness can just be a momentary state of feeling good and being soaked in ego. But true happiness is when the mind is calm and peaceful, something that cannot be robbed away.”
Indeed, experts have found that happiness goes beyond what just happens around us. Studies have revealed that factors such as meaningful relationships, a sense of purpose and personal growth contribute to our overall satisfaction.
Together, let’s explore some factors affecting happiness and learn how to be happy.
Regular physical activity is not just crucial for our physical health but also plays an important role in our mental wellbeing. Exercise releases endorphins or feel-good hormones that help elevate mood and reduce feelings of stress. Whether it’s a brisk walk, a yoga session or hitting the gym, adding exercise to our routine can boost our energy levels and contribute to a more positive outlook on life and what we know as happiness.
Not getting enough sleep doesn’t just make us feel tired, it affects how well our brain works and how stable our emotions are. So, quality sleep might be the answer to not just our mental and physical health but also our happiness. When we’re sleep-deprived, we tend to get more irritable, have mood swings and find it harder to concentrate and get things done. This in turn can make us frustrated, upset and sad.
To improve our sleep, it’s important to stick to a regular sleep schedule and create a relaxing bedtime routine. These habits help our body get used to sleeping and waking at the right times, which leads to a deeper and more restful sleep. We wake up feeling refreshed, happy and ready to tackle the day with a positive attitude.
Many of us tend to focus on the shortcomings in our lives; the colleague with a luxurious bag or the person with a seemingly better lifestyle. Yet, we often overlook our own blessings. Practicing gratitude is a wonderful way to enhance our happiness. This involves consciously appreciating the positive aspects of our life, no matter how small they may seem.
Keeping a journal is a great way to cultivate gratitude. This simple practice involves jotting down things we are thankful for each day. It shifts our focus from what we do not have to what we have. By regularly reflecting on our blessings, we can cultivate a mindset that enhances overall happiness.
As Chelladurai says, “Happiness is seeking myself deep inside, discovering me in my wholeness. The very joy of being alive and being filled with gratitude for all the blessings bestowed on me by the almighty.”
Whether it’s placing a small bowl of water for birds on a hot day or offering some food to a cow grazing by the roadside, acts like these not only help animals but also bring a sense of satisfaction and joy to the giver. Acts of kindness, whether towards people or animals, enhance the giver’s sense of happiness and fulfillment.
Engaging in altruistic behaviors releases oxytocin, a hormone associated with bonding and positive social interactions. When you take the time to care for an animal or assist someone in need, you’re not just performing a good deed, you’re also triggering biological processes that promote feelings of connection. Showing kindness towards animals and humans is also a powerful way to enrich your life while making the world a better place for everyone.
Happiness is influenced by various factors including relationships, health, meaningful work, personal growth, reading happy books and watching happy movies and having a sense of purpose.
Money can contribute to happiness up to a certain point. However, factors such as relationships and personal fulfillment play a larger role in long-term happiness.
Practicing gratitude enhances happiness by shifting focus from what we lack to appreciating what we have.
Regular exercise releases endorphins, chemicals in the brain that reduce pain and trigger positive feelings, thus making you happy.
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