How to Be Happy
Dear Patient,
What’s the key to happiness?
Researchers at the Harvard Study of Adult Development have been asking this question since 1938.
And recently the study’s director and associate director, Dr. Robert Waldinger and Dr. Marc Schultz, published The Good Life, a book of lessons from the decades-long study.
I’ll summarize it for you.
What makes people happy?
Not money.
Not possessions.
Not power, fame or recognition.
Not productivity or a crossed-off to-do list.
Not a big house or a nice car.
Not flawless skin, glossy hair or perfectly toned abs.
Not vacations or travel.
Not a fulfilling career.
Not hobbies or interests or stuff you do for fun.
Not amazing life experiences.
Not even good health.
Relationships.
That’s it.
That’s the key to happiness.
When asked if people could change one thing in their lives to be happier, what should they choose, according to the data—Robert Waldinger replied:
“They should invest in their relationships with other people. We found that the strongest predictors of who not just stayed happy but who was healthy as they went through life - the strongest predictors were the warmth and the quality of their relationships with other people.”
So there it is. Find your people, make time for them, and tell them you love them. And be happy.
Love and gratitude,
Your Acupuncturist
Nice. And true. Thanks!