Happiness broadly covers two key areas – how people tend to feel in the present moment and how satisfied they are with their lives overall. Happiness can therefore range from a sudden rush of intense emotion, such as joy or euphoria, to a much calmer and steadier sense of contentment in the long term.
Happiness on a personal level can make any day better and add great value to anyone’s life! But what if happiness was cherished and appreciated not just locally but on an international scale? How could that make changes in life, such as the way the economy works or how societies function?
International Day of Happiness aims to celebrate the happiness that exists all over the world, even if it is measured in different ways. This day is meant to be inspiring to people to spread positivity, whether big or small, with others and encouraging each nation to prioritize the happiness of its citizens.
As one of the key pursuits of human life, it is no surprise that there has been endless philosophizing and discussion on the subject of happiness for thousands of years. For instance, the Ancient Greek philosopher, Aristotle, argued that happiness is the only thing that humans seek “in and of itself.” This idea maintains that all of the other wants and desires that humans pursue ultimately contribute to happiness, making happiness itself the end goal.
And much later, in the 18th and 19th centuries, utilitarians such as Jeremy Bentham and John Stuart Mill developed an ethical theory that even saw virtuous acts as those which maximize happiness and decrease suffering. The idea may have been that even acting selflessly was a bit selfish because it made people feel happy!
Now, International Day of Happiness argues that being happy can bring a fairer and more balanced approach to economic growth in particular, such that it foregrounds sustainable development, tackles poverty and increases personal and social well-being. But as well as on a societal level, this day can certainly also be used to celebrate happiness that exists on a personal and individual level!
So today, make someone happy, share a happy thought, give and get daily nudges on how to incorporate more positivity and mindfulness into life from a happiness app or a local self-help group. Visit a local bookstore where there are also a whole range of self-help articles and books available detailing various keys to happiness. Meet regularly with like-minded happy people to support each other in taking positive action for healthier happier lifestyles. Spend time with loved ones, and do not forget to smile!