The Pursuit of Happiness

“Happiness does not lie in happiness, but in the achievement of it.”

Fyodor Dostoevsky

Happiness - that universally sought-after state of being – has absorbed philosophers, intrigued psychologists and fascinated neuroscientists throughout history. What exactly is happiness? ?How do we know we are happy? How can we measure happiness? How do we achieve it?

Across centuries of philosophical thought, happiness (or eudaimonia in Ancient Greek philosophy) has been a central theme. Aristotle, the Greek philosopher who made lasting contributions to nearly every aspect of human knowledge, defined happiness as the ultimate goal of human existence. He believed it could only be achieved through virtuous living and the fulfilment of human potential. Similarly, in the teachings of Eastern philosophies such as Buddhism, happiness is often equated with inner peace and contentment, achieved through a detachment from desires and the ego.

During the Enlightenment of the 17th and 18th centuries, philosophers like Jeremy Bentham and John Stuart Mill proposed the concept of Utilitarianism, which suggests that happiness is the greatest good and that all actions should be judged by their ability to maximize overall happiness or pleasure. Bentham even devised his ‘Felicific Calculus’ in an attempt to mathematically determine the amount of pleasure that an action is likely to produce. This perspective laid the groundwork for modern approaches to understanding happiness.

What causes happiness?

Contemporary psychology offers some valuable insights into the nature of happiness and how it can be cultivated. While there isn't a universally agreed-upon definition, it's often conceptualised as a subjective feeling of joy and pleasure – an overall positive experience. Researchers often explore various components of happiness, such as emotional wellbeing and life satisfaction. The field of positive psychology, pioneered by Martin Seligman and others, focuses on the factors that contribute to a fulfilling and meaningful life. According to this framework, happiness is not just the absence of negative emotions but rather a psychological state characterised by positive emotions, engagement, relationships, meaning and personal accomplishments.

Numerous studies have sought to identify the determinants of happiness. About 50% of an individual’s predisposition to happiness is thought to be genetic. Around 10 percent is based on life circumstances such as wealth, health and social status but the remaining 40 percent is down to personal choices. Even if people aren’t born with a positive outlook, committing to improving their happiness on a regular basis can make a difference.

In her popular course ‘The Science of Wellbeing’ Yale professor Laurie Santos suggests that activities such as practicing gratitude, spending time in nature, pursuing meaningful goals and engaging in acts of kindness can boost individual wellbeing and, ultimately, happiness.

It's all in the mind

Modern advances in neuroscience have also provided valuable insights into the neural mechanisms underlying happiness. Neuroimaging studies have revealed that experiences of happiness are associated with the activation of certain brain regions, including the prefrontal cortex, which is involved in decision-making and emotional regulation, and the nucleus accumbens, often referred to as the brain's pleasure centre.

Furthermore, neuroplasticity, the brain's ability to reorganize itself in response to experiences, suggests that happiness can be cultivated through intentional practices that shape the brain's neural circuitry over time. For example, meditation and mindfulness practices have been shown to promote structural changes in the brain associated with emotional regulation and well-being.

Happy in life

So how can we find more happiness in life? ?One of the strongest determinants is having nurturing social relationships. Humans are inherently social beings, and as such, our nature compels us to seek connection with others.

Research has identified the link between social connections and happiness. Fulfilling relationships build contentment, safety and calm, while negative or absent relationships provoke anxiety, depression, and loneliness. The joy, laughter and affection that we experience in positive relationships stimulate the release of neurotransmitters such as dopamine, serotonin and endorphins in the brain. These chemicals are associated with feelings of pleasure, reward and wellbeing, leading to an immediate boost in mood and happiness.

Happy at work

In today's modern work environments, fostering employee happiness is not only beneficial for individual well-being but also for organisational success. Research has consistently shown that happier employees are more productive, creative and engaged, leading to higher levels of job satisfaction and lower turnover rates.

Improving employee experience in the workplace helps to create a more positive environment where employees feel valued, supported and generally happier. When companies invest in facilities, flexible work arrangements, career development opportunities and create a supportive culture, employees are more likely to feel satisfied and fulfilled in their roles.

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In his 2006 bestseller ‘Stumbling upon Happiness’, Daniel Gilbert quotes ‘Le Lavandou’, written in 1902 by Willa Cather:

“One cannot divine nor forecast the conditions that will make happiness; one only stumbles upon them by chance, in a lucky hour, at the world’s end somewhere, and holds fast to the days, as to fortune and fame.”

As we continue to navigate the complexities of happiness, it's reassuring to know that while chance or genetics may play a role, ongoing research is offering us valuable insights into how we can cultivate and sustain our well-being, guiding us towards a brighter and happier future.

On this International Day of Happiness, let’s make time to laugh, spend time with loved ones, enjoy the daylight – just do whatever makes you happy!

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