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?