International Day of Happiness

March 20 is the International Day of Happiness. It was established by the United Nations in 2012 to recognize the importance of happiness and well-being as universal goals. The day encourages people to focus on positive emotions, kindness, and mental well-being. We all want to be happy, which is not easy in this complicated, hectic world. Talking about happiness is certainly less difficult than actually being truly happy.
But what do you think we need to focus on to achieve lasting happiness, rather than just a momentary feeling?

Several key factors for happiness

There is no universal recipe, just as there isn’t for anything else in life. While happiness is personal and can vary from person to person, research and wisdom from psychology, philosophy, and life experiences suggest several key factors that contribute to lasting happiness: gratitude, selflessness and helpfulness towards others, strong relationships, optimism & resilience, work-life balance, health & well-being, self-acceptance & authenticity.
Let’s take a closer look at some of them.

Gratitude

Focusing on what we have rather than what we lack helps us develop a more positive mindset. When we appreciate what we already possess, we feel more content and less dissatisfied. One way to cultivate gratitude is by keeping a journal where we write down things we are thankful for each day. This habit trains our minds to notice the good in our lives, even in difficult times. If journaling isn’t for us, simply pausing to reflect on positive moments can have a similar effect. Over time, practicing gratitude leads to greater happiness and emotional well-being.

Selflessness and Helpfulness Towards Others

Help a friend, family member, or even a stranger in need always make us happy. Sometimes, people just need someone to truly listen to them. A kind word, a smile, or a thoughtful gesture can brighten someone’s day. Be Generous; share knowledge, resources, or anything that might help others. Selflessness is powerful—it makes both the giver and receiver happier. And when we help others, we feel that our actions matter, which gives life meaning. Giving and kindness trigger dopamine, serotonin, and oxytocin, which boost mood and reduce stress. Helping others reduces self-centered worries, making us more grateful and content.

Work-Life Balance

And last but not least, I would like to mention our work-life balance, which could include several other aspects. Achieving a healthy work-life balance is essential for maintaining both mental and physical well-being. It’s important to dedicate time to our jobs but also prioritize our personal life, ensuring we don’t become overwhelmed by work alone. Building strong relationships with family, friends, and colleagues also plays a significant role in creating a fulfilling life. Beyond work and relationships, engaging in hobbies like reading, playing sports, or visiting museums provides a wonderful way to unwind and nurture our creativity. These activities offer a break from the daily routine, allowing us to recharge and gain new perspectives, we can create a well-rounded and happier life.

In the end, by focusing on gratitude, nurturing our relationships, engaging in meaningful hobbies, and maintaining a healthy work-life balance, we can create a life filled with lasting happiness and fulfillment. However, to live this way, we need to make a consistent effort and practice perseverance, as true happiness requires ongoing dedication.