Are you a happy person?
What makes a person happy? In 1938, researchers at Harvard University began a study to find out what makes people happy. The study gathered health data from over 700 participants from around the world. So what made people happy? Was it money, professional status, or their business acumen? Maybe it was their physical fitness levels, how often they exercised, or how many hours of quality rest they got each night. Actually, it was none of the things listed above. After 85 years of analyzing the study data, the researchers found that one thing, and one thing only made for a happier and healthier individual, the quality of their relationships. When we lived in Texas, I made friends with an older man who lived happier and healthier than his counterparts, well into his 100s because of the socialization he did every day at the local YMCA. He used to say that he went to the "Y" every day to work out, but the muscle he exercised most was his jaw. He would spend hours sitting on the bench at the top of the stairs to the weight room and started a conversation with everyone who showed up to exercise. His health and longevity were absolutely tied to the social interaction he had at the YMCA. If the COVID pandemic taught us anything, it's how much we need each other to be happy and healthy. When we were all locked down, incidents of alcoholism, drug abuse, and domestic violence went up. We are much better together than we are by ourselves. So if you want to be happier and healthier, concentrate on developing quality connections with people who care about you, are willing to tell you the truth, and love you. Who knows, with that formula for living, you might be able to live well into your 100s. Leave me a comment about your thoughts on what promotes health and happiness in your life.
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Author & SpeakerTerry is a sought after speaker who believes in the power of a story to motivate, inspire, and help others lead their uncommon and extraordinary lives. By combining his twelve-year cancer journey with his diverse business, athletic coaching, and hostage negotiating expertise, he delivers compelling yet relatable presentations for conferences, on-line events, panels, meetings, and seminars. Archives
November 2024
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