Harvard started a study in 1938 to track lifestyles of those most happy. There was a distinct difference in what people thought would make them happy to what actually did make them happy!
1. Is Wealth And Fame The Keys To A Happy Life?
This long term study had some surprising results. More than 700 men (and some of their spouses) were tracked since 1938. The study interviewed the subjects, performed blood draws and brain scans.
2. Some Of The Results Were Quite Individualized
The most important key to longevity was to avoid smoking. It also found that liberals had longer and more active sex lives than conservatives. Not surprisingly, alcohol was the main cause of divorce and it’s abuse often preceded depression.
3. How To Fight Chronic Disease
Those involved in very strong relationships tended to be protected from not only chronic disease, but mental illness and memory decline. (This proved true, even though relationships hit “tough patches.”
4. The Overall Results
People who had strong relationships: with family, friends, and old colleagues fared far better than those who were loners.
5. What Can We Learn?
We need to feel we have people we can count on in life. Perhaps, it’s better to replace some screen time with people time. If you’re apt to be socially isolated, fight the feeling. Start slow. Reach out to a long lost family member or friend.
