Three methods for purchasing happiness, along with additional suggestions for a contented existence.

Researchers have studied extensively to determine the best ways to increase happiness.

National Happiness Happens Month in August encourages us to celebrate what brings us joy, while research has shown us ways to increase happiness in our daily lives.

5 ways to improve your happiness

1. Treat your happiness like an investment portfolio

According to Arthur C. Brooks, a happiness expert who teaches at Harvard University, there are regions of your life that you can manage and significantly enhance your happiness.

Investing in happiness involves four areas, as suggested by Brooks.

1. One can find meaning in life through faith, which can be based on religion or spiritual practices, as stated.
2. Family: Aim to build strong connections with members of your family.
3. Cultivate deep connections with individuals you intentionally engage with.
4. Discover a sense of purpose in your daily tasks, even if they don't generate the highest income.

2. Focus on the No. 1 thing for happiness

If Laurie Santos, a professor who teaches the most popular class at Yale about the science of happiness, had to choose just one thing that you can do to feel happier today, "it would be engaging in social connection."

Santos stated in February that every study of happy individuals indicates that they are more social, spend more time with others physically, and invest time in their relationships with friends and family members.

To maintain social connections in your life, intentionally set aside time to develop relationships, be open to building connections with strangers, and ask deeper questions during conversations with others, as Santos advised.

3. You need these 3 types of friendships to truly feel happy

In his Harvard happiness course, Brooks echoed the viewpoint of Aristotle, emphasizing the importance of cultivating three distinct types of friendships.

These three friendships can lead to true happiness, Brooks said:

1. According to Brooks in his article for "The Atlantic," these relationships are typically transactional in nature and may involve co-workers or business partners.
2. These relationships are "built on shared interests or enjoyment of similar activities," according to Brooks.
3. According to Aristotle, perfect friendships are those that are based on a mutual love for something that not only unites them but also elevates their behavior to virtue. He believed that a relationship is perfect when it is focused on improving the circumstances of the other person, rather than being based on utility or pleasure.

4. Try these 3 ways to 'buy happiness'

According to Brooks, while it's commonly believed that money can't buy happiness, there are ways to use money to enhance your well-being.

In his Harvard happiness course, Brooks stated that "regardless of our income level, we can increase our happiness through knowledge and practice."

There are several ways in which you can utilize money to boost your happiness.

1. Invest in experiences that will bring you joy, such as taking a trip to a dream destination or attending a concert featuring your favorite artist.
2. Hiring someone to handle tedious tasks like yard work or chores frees up time for you to focus on activities you enjoy.
3. Giving money to support causes you believe in can boost the levels of happy chemicals in your brain, such as dopamine or oxytocin, according to Brooks.

5. Remember this fundamental rule about happiness

According to Brooks, while money can enhance your happiness, it cannot guarantee sustained happiness.

Tami Muller, a happiness trainer and positive psychology coach, agreed with Brooks' viewpoint that pursuing happiness through the relentless pursuit of success is not the most effective approach.

According to Muller, the key to success is happiness, as it leads to more money, better relationships, and a more successful life.

"Muller stated, "Instead of focusing on success, we should prioritize happiness, and success will naturally ensue.""

Happiness experts have shared valuable tips on Make It.

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