The evidence on living a good life

For centuries, medical and social research has focused on human illness and dysfunction. But over the last decade, there is a growing cadre of researchers who are looking into specific factors that lead to social and emotional well-being.

A center at the University of California-Berkley called the Greater Good Science Center is focused on just that – the scientific research into social and emotional well-being, and how to help people apply this research to their personal and professional lives.

The center sponsors its own research, and also publishes on on-line magazine to disseminate the latest information to parents, educators, community leaders, and policy makers.

So, what really does make people happy?  A recent article on the Greater Good site summed up the evidence about specific actions that everyone can take to improve their own happiness.

• Make time for quality, social interactions. The dominant finding in happiness research is that that social connections are key to bliss. Some research also shows that it’s the quality of our social interactions that really matter, not the quantity.
• Learn forgiveness. New research show that when we forgive those who have wronged us, we feel better about ourselves, experience more positive emotions, and feel closer to others.
• Be grateful. Studies show that simply counting listing things you are thankful for on a regular basis leads to more optimism and greater satisfaction.
• Foster generosity. A 2008 study published in the journal Science found that people reported greater happiness when they spent money on others than when they spent it on themselves, even though they initially thought the opposite would be true.
• Exercise.  Studies show that regular physical activity increases happiness and self-esteem, reduces anxiety and stress, and can even lift symptoms of depression.
• Sleep enough. Research has consistently reduced amounts of sleep to reduced amounts of happiness.
• Be mindful. Studies show that being aware of our thoughts, feelings and circumstances reduces hostility and anxiousness, and leads to greater life satisfaction.