The Keys to Happiness

I’m sure you’ve seen plenty of articles and lists about the “key to happiness”. Usually it’s something you aren’t doing that you should be, and if you just do it you will be happy……but is that really true?  Does happiness start in you? Is money the key?  I often wonder if there really is a true “key” or if it’s different for everyone. It might be something you love to do, a person, a hobby, or maybe it’s just doing a little bit of nothing. I’m not sure there’s a magical answer to the question of the key to happiness, but scientists have studied the topic for a very long time and have come up with a list they believe to be accurate. Let’s see if any of these ring true for you:
 
According to a recent survey, money is NOT one of the top ten keys to happiness.  At least not directly.
Spending quality time with your family was chosen as the #1 key to happiness.  To be fair though, it’s a lot easier to make time when you’ve got plenty of money in the bank.  Here are the top ten keys to happiness, according to the study . . .
1.  Spending quality time with your family.
2.  Having time to yourself.
3.  Spending time with friends.  So the top three are all about having more free time.
4.  Being outdoors more.
5.  Sleeping well.
6.  Indulging in your favorite hobby.
7.  Delicious food, especially if it’s good for you.
8.  Continuing to learn and discover new things.
9.  Eating healthy.
10.  Exercise.
The survey also found 20% of us spend less than 30 minutes a day on things that truly make us happy.
 
So what do you think? Are those the 10 keys for you?  I’d say about 5 out of ten ring true in my world. Whatever it is that makes you happy….just try to do more of it 😉