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Harvard Study: Success and Happiness in Life Stem from These 3 Traits, Not Wealth

According to research by experts, children who grow up happy tend to share three things in common—and none of them involve wealth or privilege.

Administrator

3 May, 2024

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In a ground-breaking study spanning 75 years, Harvard researchers followed the lives of over 720 men, interviewing them extensively about their work, family, health, and overall well-being. The subjects were divided into two groups: Harvard sophomores and inner-city Boston teenagers.

Over the decades, these men went on to lead vastly different lives—some achieved great success as doctors, lawyers, and businessmen, while others struggled with addiction and poverty. Some became pillars of their communities, while others sank into despair. Some died prematurely, while others lived long and healthy lives.

The study’s findings revealed that happiness is not determined by wealth, status, or fame, but rather by the presence of three key factors:

Socially connected children are more likely to be happy and successful

1. Strong social ties

People with strong social ties are more likely to thrive in life. Humans are social creatures, and our well-being depends on our ability to connect with others. Social skills help us build strong relationships, which provide us with support, companionship, and a sense of belonging. Studies have shown that people with strong social connections are healthier and more resilient in old age, while those who are socially isolated tend to be lonelier and experience a faster decline in physical and cognitive function.

2. Close confidants

People who live long and healthy lives often have close confidants with whom they can share their innermost thoughts and feelings. The study found that happiness in old age is not so much about money or status, but about the quality of our relationships. People who are happy with their relationships at age 50 tend to be happy and healthy at age 80. This suggests that strong, supportive relationships can buffer us against the challenges we face as we age.

3. Feeling loved and cared for

People who feel loved and cared for tend to live longer, healthier lives. When we feel supported and loved by those around us, it gives us a sense of purpose and belonging. Studies have shown that people who feel loved and supported in their 80s are more likely to have good memory function, while those who feel isolated are more likely to experience cognitive decline. Researchers believe that this is because close relationships provide us with love, understanding, and acceptance, which creates a positive environment that benefits both our mental and physical health.

The study’s findings suggest that finding a compatible life partner is one of the most important decisions we make. Having a loving, supportive relationship can make all the difference in our overall well-being.

Parents should make an effort to help their children develop healthy relationships from a young age. Children who feel loved and supported are more likely to be confident and resilient. They are also more likely to develop into happy, healthy adults.

Frequently asked questions

Strong social ties increase the likelihood of thriving in life. As social creatures, our well-being is deeply connected to our ability to forge meaningful relationships. Social skills enable us to build a supportive network, providing companionship and a sense of belonging. Research shows that socially connected individuals are generally healthier and more resilient in their golden years. Conversely, social isolation can lead to loneliness and an accelerated decline in physical and cognitive abilities.

The presence of close confidants, with whom one can share their innermost thoughts and feelings, is integral to longevity and happiness. As the study suggests, the quality of relationships takes precedence over monetary or societal status when it comes to contentment in old age. Those who are satisfied with their relationships at age 50 tend to carry that happiness and health into their 80s. Strong, supportive relationships act as a buffer against the challenges that come with aging.

Feeling loved and cared for has a profound impact on one’s health and longevity. When individuals feel supported and loved by their social circle, they gain a sense of purpose and belonging. Studies show that this sense of belonging correlates with better memory function in one’s 80s. Conversely, isolation can lead to cognitive decline. Close relationships provide an environment of love, understanding, and acceptance, positively influencing both mental and physical health.

The study underscores the importance of cultivating strong, supportive relationships and finding a compatible life partner. These decisions and relationships form the foundation of our well-being. Additionally, parents play a pivotal role in fostering healthy relationships for their children from a young age, setting the stage for their confidence, resilience, and overall happiness as adults.