Insights from happiness research

What can we do to become happier? Is happiness merely a byproduct of success and wealth? According to psychology professor Florian Becker of the German Handwerks Zeitung, while our level of happiness is partly determined by genetics, it is largely in our control. Some people find a sense of happiness even in difficult circumstances, while others remain dissatisfied despite being in an objectively favorable position.

Happiness research suggests that to lead a happier life, we can consciously work on our attitudes and behaviors. Chance and fate have limited influence; rather, our own efforts and mindset are crucial. In this spirit, here are some practical tips to help boost personal satisfaction:

• Engage in activities that benefit us: Happiness researchers agree that sleep, exercise, meditation, and healthy eating contribute significantly to our overall well-being.
• Cultivate positive thinking: We can choose whether or not to give in to negative emotions such as envy, anger, and revenge. The happiest people focus on what is going well. Consciously focus on the positive aspects of your life.
• Beliefs about happiness: Many people believe that happiness results from success, material wealth, and acquiring new things. However, happiness research shows that this form of happiness is short-lived. Constantly striving for "more" can lead to the "hedonic treadmill," where the joy of new achievements quickly fades, and material needs grow faster than achieved wealth. True contentment will never be reached if happiness is solely linked to material gain.
• Happiness as a cause instead of an outcome: Happiness researchers recommend shifting our perspective: Instead of viewing happiness as a byproduct of good living conditions, we should consider it as a starting point. When we are happy, we lay the foundation for many positive developments in life. Happy people tend to be healthier, build stronger social relationships, and achieve greater career success. A positive mindset influences our thoughts, feelings, and behaviors, and can set off a positive spiral.