Have you heard of the Grant Study? It's the longest-running study of human development. A Harvard-funded project which followed over 250 subjects (all men, all Harvard grads) for 75 years to trying to answer the question, "What it takes to live a happy life." (You can read more about it here.)
What does such a long-term, expensive study reveal? That it's not money, power, fame or IQ that makes us happiest. It's close relationships.
From wikipedia: [the] main conclusion is that "warmth of relationships throughout life have the greatest positive impact on 'life satisfaction'". Put differently,...the study shows: "Happiness is love. Full stop."
DUH! Right? It doesn't matter how much money we have if we don't have anyone to share it with. Who cares if you're top dog at the office if you go home to an empty house. And these findings do not just refer to romantic love. All types of close relationships contribute to happiness. This study provides an important reminder to return that call, get that lunch date on the calendar, turn off the TV and read a book with your kids. Make time for your family and friends. They hold the secret to your happiness.
Recent Comments