What Makes People Happy: The Science of Lasting Joy

In 1776, Thomas Jefferson penned the phrase "the pursuit of happiness" in the Declaration of Independence, elevating the concept to a fundamental human right. Nearly 250 years later, we find ourselves still grappling with a pivotal question: What makes people happy?

Our modern world, with its dizzying array of choices and constant connectivity, has paradoxically made this pursuit more complex. We're bombarded with images of seemingly perfect lives on social media, and advertisers promise happiness in the form of the latest gadget or luxury item. But does any of this really lead to lasting joy?

Interestingly, recent scientific studies have shed new light on this age-old question, challenging our assumptions about things that make people happy and offering insight into universal principles that have proven themselves time and again to lead to psychological well-being.

In this article, we'll delve into the science of happiness, exploring the five core areas that contribute to lasting joy.

Upgrades you'll receive:

1. A deep understanding of the scientific foundations of true happiness

2. Actionable tips to improve your habits in each core area of life

3. Insights to create a personalized happiness plan tailored to your unique needs and aspirations

As Leo Tolstoy once said, "If you want to be happy, be." But in our complex modern world, is happiness really that simple? Let's embark on this journey to uncover the fundamental factors on how to be happy and live your best life.

The Pursuit of Happiness: More Than Just a Phrase

The notion that wealth equals happiness is deeply ingrained in our society. However, reality often paints a different picture. Consider this: 54% of lottery winners report being less happy five years after their windfall. This statistic challenges our assumptions about what makes people happy and highlights a crucial concept in happiness research: hedonic adaptation.

Hedonic adaptation, often referred to as the "hedonic treadmill," is our tendency to quickly return to a relatively stable level of happiness despite major positive or negative life changes. In other words, the things that make a person happy initially may not sustain that happiness over time.

This phenomenon explains why material pursuits often fail to bring lasting joy. We adapt to our new circumstances, whether it's a bigger house, a fancier car, or a higher-paying job. The initial thrill fades, and we find ourselves seeking the next big thing to recapture that fleeting sense of happiness.

So, if material wealth isn't the answer, what does the pursuit of happiness mean in our modern context? To answer this, we need to look beyond fleeting pleasures and delve into the core aspects of what makes up a happier person.

Read More: Simple Pleasures in Life

The Five Cores of Happiness: A Scientific Approach to What Makes People Happy

As we explore what makes humans really happy, history and research consistently point to five core areas correlated to how to be happy. These areas form the foundation of a fulfilling life and offer a comprehensive approach to understanding and cultivating that deep, soul-filling, long-term happiness we all seek. By focusing on these core areas, we can achieve a truly happy life.

1. Mindset Core: Your Foundation for Happiness

Your mindset serves as the lens through which you view the world, significantly influencing your self esteem and ability to maintain a positive attitude in the toughest of circumstances. Research in positive psychology has shown that developing a “growth owner mindset" can dramatically impact how to be happy and resilient in the face of life’s challenges, leading to a more positive outlook on life.

For more on this topic, check out 7 Growth Mindset Questions

Key aspects/habits of a happiness-promoting mindset include:

1. Growth Mindset Orientation: Believe in your ability to learn, grow, and overcome obstacles. This perspective, popularized by psychologist Carol Dweck, can lead to greater resilience and life satisfaction. People with a growth mindset view challenges as opportunities for development, rather than threats to their abilities.

2. Failing Forward: Embrace failures as learning opportunities rather than setbacks. This approach can reduce stress and anxiety while promoting personal growth. By reframing failures as valuable feedback, you can maintain motivation and continue progressing towards your goals, even in the face of setbacks.

3. Obstacle Reframing: View challenges as temporary roadblocks waiting for solutions. This positive reframing can boost your problem-solving skills and overall optimism. When faced with obstacles, ask yourself, “What can I learn from this?” or “How can I approach this differently?” to maintain a solution-focused mindset.

4. Gratitude Practice: Regularly acknowledging the good in your life can significantly boost your mood and overall well-being. Living in gratitude helps shift your focus from what you lack to what you have, fostering contentment and positive emotions.

Healthy Habit To Form: Implement a daily gratitude and positive self-talk practice.

• Spend five minutes each morning writing down three things you’re grateful for and reciting positive affirmations. This simple habit can rewire your brain for positivity and increase your overall happiness.

Habit Tip: Make it obvious by putting a reminder in your phone with a link to your gratitude list.

Learn More: How to Be a More Positive Person

2. Career & Finance Core: Finding Joy in Work and Wealth

When considering what makes people happy, it's impossible to overlook the significant role that our careers and financial situations play. This core area is about more than just earning a paycheck; it's about aligning your work with your purpose and creating a healthy relationship with money that supports your overall well-being.

Read more on 5 Reasons Why Money Can't Buy Happiness.

Key aspects/habits of career and financial happiness include:

1. Purpose Alignment: Connect your career to your life's mission and values. As Confucius wisely said, "Choose a job you love, and you will never have to work a day in your life." Research shows that people who find meaning in their work report higher levels of job satisfaction and overall happiness. Reflect on how your work contributes to something larger than yourself and aligns with your personal values.

2. Strength & Passion Utilization: Leverage your natural talents and acquired skills in your work. A Gallup study found that people who use their strengths every day are six times more likely to be engaged on the job. Identify your key strengths and seek ways to apply them more frequently in your work. This might involve taking on new responsibilities or projects that align with your strengths. Adopt habits of successful people to enhance your career satisfaction.

3. Financial Intelligence: Develop a growth-oriented relationship with money. Understanding and managing your finances effectively can reduce stress and increase your sense of security and freedom. This includes creating a budget, setting financial goals, and educating yourself about investing and long-term financial planning.

4. Work-Life Balance: Strive for harmony between your professional and personal life. A study in the Journal of Happiness Studies found that work-life balance is a stronger predictor of happiness than income. Managing personal life helps in reaching goals and achieving overall well-being. This might involve setting boundaries, learning to delegate, or negotiating flexible work arrangements.

Healthy Habit To Form: Daily review of your purpose-driven career goals.

• Habit Tip: Start small/simple by identifying 2-3 goals by writing down answers to the following questions:

  • What are my top strengths and how can I use them more in my work?

  • What aspects of my job align with my personal values?

  • What small steps can I take to bring more purpose to my current role?

Remember, doing what makes you happy in your career doesn't always mean making drastic changes. Sometimes, small shifts in perspective or finding new ways to apply your strengths can significantly boost your job satisfaction and overall happiness.

3. Relationship Core: Connecting for Lasting Happiness through Meaningful Relationships

When exploring what makes people happy, relationships consistently emerge as a crucial factor. A groundbreaking 75-year Harvard study revealed that good relationships are key to happiness and health. This core focuses on creating and maintaining deep, fulfilled connections and gaining allies to help you achieve your goals.

Key aspects/habits of relationship happiness include:

1. Emotional Intelligence: Develop how to build emotionally healthy relationships with others. Studies show that people with high emotional intelligence tend to have more satisfying relationships and greater overall happiness. This involves recognizing and regulating your own emotions, as well as empathizing with others. Practice self-awareness and work on identifying and expressing your feelings constructively.

2. Trust Building: Foster trust through consistent, honest, and supportive interactions. As the saying goes, "Trust takes years to build, seconds to break, and forever to repair." Be reliable in your commitments, communicate openly, and show vulnerability when appropriate. These actions create a foundation of trust that strengthens relationships over time.

3. Effective Communication: Practice active listening and clear expression. This skill is crucial for building strong, lasting relationships that contribute to your happiness. Active listening involves fully focusing on the speaker, understanding their message, and responding thoughtfully. Clear expression means articulating your thoughts and feelings in a way that others can easily understand.

4. Empathy and Compassion: Connect on a deeper emotional level. Research indicates that empathetic people tend to have stronger social connections and higher levels of life satisfaction. Try to see situations from others' perspectives and show genuine care for their feelings and experiences.

Learn More: How to be a better listener in a relationships

Healthy Habit To Form: Practice active listening and empathy.

• Habit Tip: Make it obvious by setting a reminder in your phone to go off before your next scheduled social event to focus entirely on understanding the other person's perspective before formulating your response. Ask open-ended questions and reflect on what you hear.

It's important to note that what things make a person happy in terms of relationships can vary. For some, it might be a large social circle, while for others, a few close, deep connections are more fulfilling. The key is to cultivate relationships that are meaningful and supportive to you.

Remember, happy things often come from shared experiences and mutual support. Whether it's celebrating successes together, offering a shoulder to cry on during tough times, or simply enjoying each other's company, our relationships play a crucial role in our overall happiness and well-being.

4. Physical Health Core: Building Well-being from the Ground Up

When considering what makes people happy, the role of physical health often gets overlooked. However, science shows that the physical benefits of regular exercise and overall physical well-being are intricately linked to our mental and emotional states. This core focuses on taking care of your physical self to look good, feel good, and sustain the energy and stamina to propel you through life.

Key aspects/habits of physical health happiness include:

1. Regular Exercise: Engage in both cardiovascular and strength training activities. Studies show that regular exercise can be as effective as medication for treating mild to moderate depression. Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate aerobic activity or 75 minutes of vigorous aerobic activity a week, as recommended by the CDC. Find activities you enjoy to make exercise sustainable, whether it’s dancing, hiking, swimming, or team sports.

2. Nutrition and Hydration: Fuel your body with a balanced diet and proper hydration. As the saying goes, “You are what you eat.” A study in the American Journal of Public Health found that eating more fruits and vegetables is associated with increased happiness, life satisfaction, and well-being. Focus on whole foods, lean proteins, and healthy fats. Stay hydrated by drinking water throughout the day. Incorporate these 7 healthy eating habits into your daily routine and live a healthy life.

3. Sleep and Recovery: Prioritize quality sleep and allow time for physical recovery. Research indicates that sleep deprivation can significantly impact mood and overall happiness. Aim for 7-9 hours of sleep per night. Establish a consistent sleep schedule and create a relaxing bedtime routine to improve sleep quality.

4. Injury Prevention and Awareness: Stay mindful of your body and external factors affecting your health. This proactive approach can prevent issues that might negatively impact your happiness. Practice proper form during exercise, take breaks when needed, and listen to your body’s signals.

Healthy Habits To Form: Establish a consistent exercise and sleep routine.

• Habit Tip: Start small – aim for 30 minutes of moderate physical activity three times a week and set a consistent sleep schedule. Even these small changes can have a significant impact on your mood and energy levels.

Remember, the goal isn’t perfection. It’s about making consistent, small choices that support your overall health and happiness. Whether it’s taking a walk in nature, preparing a nutritious meal, or prioritizing enough sleep, these actions compound over time to significantly boost your well-being.

5. Mental & Emotional Health Core: Nurturing Inner Joy

The final piece in our exploration of what makes people happy is perhaps the most intricate: mental and emotional health. This core involves your ability to effectively manage and nurture your mental health, thoughts, and feelings to minimize stress and maximize your human spirit. It’s the foundation for building a life of purpose, fulfillment, and personal growth.

Key aspects/habits of mental and emotional health happiness include:

1. Emotional Regulation: Learn to understand and control your emotional responses. As the saying goes, “Feel your feelings; don’t become them.” Research shows that individuals with better emotional regulation skills report higher levels of life satisfaction. Practice identifying your emotions without judgment, and develop strategies to manage intense feelings, such as deep breathing or counting to ten before responding.

2. Stress Management: Develop effective techniques to handle life’s pressures. A study in the Journal of Happiness Studies found that individuals who effectively manage stress report higher levels of happiness and life satisfaction. Explore various stress-reduction techniques such as meditation, yoga, or journaling; and embrace seeking help from mental health professionals to help identify and diagnose hidden issues. Understanding why emotional wellness is important can help prioritize your mental health.

3. Mindfulness and Self-Awareness: Practice being present and understanding your inner world. Mindfulness has been shown to reduce anxiety, increase positive emotions, and improve overall well-being. This involves paying attention to your thoughts, feelings, and bodily sensations without judgment. Regular mindfulness practice can help you become more aware of your thought patterns and behaviors, allowing you to make conscious choices that align with your values and goals. Trying to stop negative self-talk to gain a positive mindset.

4. Purposeful Living: Engage in activities that align with your values and contribute to something greater than yourself. Research indicates that having a sense of purpose is strongly correlated with life satisfaction and happiness. Reflect on what gives your life meaning and seek ways to incorporate these elements into your daily life. This might involve volunteering, pursuing a passion project, or setting and working towards meaningful personal goals. Explore fun activities to improve mental health to boost your emotional well-being.

Healthy Habit To Form: Implement a daily mindfulness or meditation practice.

• Habit Tip: Start with just 5 minutes a day, focusing on your breath and observing your thoughts without judgment. Gradually increase the duration as you become more comfortable with the practice. For more understanding, read this guide about How to clear your mind for meditation

Remember, taking care of your mental health is just as important as physical health. It’s not a sign of weakness to prioritize your emotional well-being—it’s a crucial component of overall happiness and success in life.

Read More About Emotional Health Goals

Crafting Your Personal Happiness Formula:

Now that we’ve explored the five core areas that contribute to what makes people happy, it’s time to consider how to apply these insights to your own happiness. The truth is, while these core areas are universal, what makes humans really happy can vary greatly from person to person. Your personal happiness formula will be as unique as you are.

To craft your own blueprint for happiness, consider the following steps:

1. Self-Assessment and Prioritization: Reflect on each of the five core areas, where you currently stand in each, and which one(s) requires the most immediate attention to get to work on.

   • Take this brief happiness quiz to get started

2. Goal Setting: Set specific, achievable goals for each core area.

   • Fill out this "Back To The Future" template to help laser focus on what truly matters in each core.

3. Identify Habits And Review Daily: Identify daily habits that align with your goals. Start with the #1 top habit you think will help you gain momentum to ensure you’re starting simple and small. Learn how to form a habit and achieve your goals. Add more habits as you meet your goals/develop initial habits. Choose a convenient time each morning to review your habits for the day, and give yourself a score at night on how you did.

   • Use this Habit Tracking Template to record and track

Remember, the goal isn’t to achieve perfect balance or happiness at all times. Life naturally has its ups and downs. The aim is to create a framework that helps you navigate these fluctuations and maintain a general sense of well-being and fulfillment.

Case Study: Sarah's Journey to Holistic Happiness

Sarah, a 32-year-old marketing manager, felt something was missing in her life. After learning about the five core areas of happiness, she decided to make some changes:

1. Mindset Core: She started a daily gratitude journal, writing down three things she was grateful for each morning.

2. Career & Finance Core: Sarah discussed with her manager how her role contributed to the company’s mission, leading to new, more fulfilling responsibilities. She also started a monthly budget.

3. Relationship Core: She committed to a weekly “friend date” to spend time with friends and practiced active listening, deepening her friendships.

4. Physical Health Core: Sarah started with a 15-minute daily walk, gradually increasing to 30 minutes and adding a weekend yoga class. She prioritized 7-8 hours of sleep nightly.

5. Mental & Emotional Health Core: She began a 5-minute daily meditation practice and sought therapy to work through long-standing emotional issues.

After six months, Sarah reported significant improvements in her overall happiness. She felt more energized, connected, and purposeful. Her work performance improved, and she found herself better equipped to handle life’s challenges.

Sarah’s experience demonstrates that happy things often come from consistent, small changes across multiple areas of life. By addressing all five core areas, she created a more balanced and fulfilling life.

Read More: How to Live Life to the Fullest

Conclusion: The True Meaning of Happiness Across Life's Core Areas

As we’ve explored, what makes people happy is complex and multifaceted. It’s not about a single achievement or possession, but a holistic approach touching all aspects of our lives. The five core areas we’ve discussed - Mindset, Career & Finance, Relationships, Physical Health, and Mental & Emotional Health - all play crucial roles in our overall happiness.

The true meaning of happiness lies in the balance and interplay of these core areas. It’s about creating a life where you’re growing, contributing, connecting, and taking care of yourself on all levels. Remember, happiness isn’t a destination, but a journey found in small, daily choices and habits.

As you move forward, start small and be patient with yourself. Choose one area to focus on initially, and gradually expand your efforts to build more happiness and joy. Your path to happiness will be unique, influenced by your personality, experiences, and circumstances. Stay curious, remain open to growth, and continually refine your approach based on what works best for you.

Ready to Unlock Your Potential For A Happy Life?

Now that you understand what makes people happy, it’s time to put this knowledge into action. The Moore Momentum System combines cutting-edge behavioral science, AI-driven personalization, and gamification to make personal development both effective and enjoyable, encouraging you to do more of what makes you happy. Even in challenging times, discover joy when life is hard by nurturing gratitude, practicing mindfulness, seeking support, and maintaining hope.

🏆 Take Our Core Values Quiz to get started. Gain insights into your current happiness levels and receive personalized recommendations for your next steps to gain momentum and level up in life.

OUR MISSION: Accelerate your growth in the 5 Key areas of life by making your habit transformation journey so simple, fun, and rewarding that your momentum becomes inevitable.