I’m currently reading The Geography of Bliss by Eric Weiner for my book club. I’m still only about half way through it, but so far it has been an enlightening read. The author travels the world in order to determine what makes people happy in different countries. If you like books that make you think and really question what it is that makes us happy, I can definately recommend this book.
Interestingly, the National Happiness Index has recently been released. Denmark, with its democracy, social equality and peaceful atmosphere is apparently the happiest country. The US ranks 16th, Australia is 22nd, and Canada is coming in pretty high up the charts at 9th. Perhaps not surprisingly, some of the unhappiest countries come from Africa, the war torn Middle East and the former Soviet Union. In fact, I’m currently reading the chapter on Moldova in the Geography of Bliss and it certainly sounds like a grim place. I’ll admit I did need to consult Google on where to actually find Moldova on a map.
What do you think is the main contributor to what makes people happy? Is it wealth, relationships, creativity, culture, trust or any number of other things?
Great responses everyone. I’m inclined to go with relationships and experiences as the things that make me happy. Stuff is just stuff. Moving overseas without all our stuff was liberating…Just me, hubby and the dog. I don’t miss anything we sold or left in storage. It’s been a great lesson. The other lesson is how important people are to me. Of course I knew it already, but living in a foreign country and knowing no-one when you arrive really brings it home to you. Experiences are the other thing I thrive on, and actually have a post along these lines coming up later this week. Can’t wait to hear your thoughts on that one.
I love this post, Mia. I think relationships and experiences are what make us truly happy. Spending time with those we love, be it friends, family members, lovers, animals, babies, etc. and bonding over shared experiences is what I think life is really all about. I think our lives should be all about experiencing as much as we can in the short time we have on this planet, but I also think that it is all the more worthwhile sharing the experiences with those whom we truly love.
Im so happy I found your website!! Wow, what a great site, love your photos! I love taking photos of my 2 babies (corgie x sheltie x jack russell and a german spitz x), you’ve motivated me to take photos now of other peoples dogs! And have you seen this site: http://www.winedogs.com.au/default.aspx - I bought the book earlier this year, LOVE IT! Cheers!
What a great post. And I have been hearing about Denmark for awhile and have solid dreams about moving there. Do you suppose they are as dog-friendly as Americans are?
I think happiness comes from experiences, not things or money. Time shared with friends and family and clients. Experiences both good and bad. Experiencing all of the things that make us feel human and alive. But mainly I think happiness comes in connecting with people and animals. I know I am at my happiest when photographing an animal, without a doubt. Nothing else makes me happier. In psychology the term is called ‘flow’. http://web.ionsys.com/~remedy/FLOW%20%20.htm
This is a really broad response, but I think comfort makes people happy, whether that translates to more democracy, better weather, more peace, less war, etc. I’m happiest with my dogs and boyfriend! :)
I haven’t been happy since 1964. I like the fuzzy doggie! Doggies should not be allowed to have that much Starbucks!