Happiness

Definition
Happiness is a state of a man which
corresponds to the greatest internal
satisfaction of his being conditions,
completeness and conciseness of life,
realization his human destination.
 Happiness: a Natural State?

Happiness does not mean:

-Having all our personal needs met
-Feeling pleasure all the time
-Always feeling satisfied with life
-Never feeling negative emotions, pain,
sadness, anger etc.
 Definition of Happiness

Aristotle: “A life lived in virtue”

Darrin McMahon: “Happiness is
never simply a function of good
feeling but rather of living good
lives, lives that will almost certainly
include a good deal of pain”
Sonja Lyubomirsky: “The
experience of joy, contentment or
positive well-being, combined with
a sense that one’s life is good,
meaningful and worthwhile”
 What determines our Happiness?
According to research by Sonja Lyubomirsky, professor of
psychology :
•50% of our happiness comes from our genes
•10% life circumstances
•40% intentional activity
 Happiness Square

FAMILY LIFE VOCATION

(love, fireside comfort, children) (work, hobby)

MONEY LIFE CONCISENESS

(material welfare) (internal peace, faith)
 Happiness and Meanings of Life
• Tendency to positive freedom;
• Creative work;
• Service for other people;
• Involvement in life;
• Devotion to cause;
• … Irvin Yalom
 Happiness and Needs
According Abraham Maslow
1) Physiological needs;
2) Need to be safe and protected;
3) Need of membership and love;
4) Need of self-respect;
5) Need of uncovering potential.

Abraham Maslow
 Happiness and Existential Needs
Existential needs - needs which help individual to
join the world:
1) Need of affiliation;
2) Need of self overcoming;
3) Need of rootedness in the world;
4) Need of self-identity;
Erich Fromm
5) Need of value system.
 Happy Moments
These are the moments when our soul rejoices of
happiness.
For example:
1) sincere smile from another person to us;
2) birth of a child;
3) nature walk;
4)…
 Aristotle About Happiness

Happiness is a work of soul in virtue

completeness. Happiness comes in time
due to self-cultivation.
Aristotle
Virtue is a positive moral quality of a
man’s character defined by his thoughts
and actions.
 Dalai Lama About Happiness
The main motivation of our life is
aspiration for happiness.
Happiness is the result of
disciplined man’s mind the soul of
whom is full of sympathy,
Dalai Lama kindness and patience.
Razmik Aydinyan About Happiness
Happiness – satisfaction due to
possession of benefits.
Benefit – something that can
satisfy people’s everyday vital
requirements, be of people’s use,
Razmik Aydinyan give pleasure.
 Bertrand Russell
about a Happy Man
Happy man is the one who lives
unprejudiced with free independent
affections and huge range of interests.
The personality of such man
Bertrand Russell
is directed towards the external world.
Maxwell Maltz About Happiness
The key for happy life is an
adequate and true image of
yourself.
Maxwell Maltz
Happiness for a man is in
creative process of desired aim
achievement.
 Lev Landau About Happiness
The man is obliged and even
must to be happy.
Happiness is:
1) enjoyment of life;
2) love;
Lev Landau
3) work;
4) communication with people.
Factors affecting Happiness
Genetic Factors (Approximately 40-50%):

•Temperament: Inherited predispositions towards

certain emotional patterns (e.g., more positive or
negative affectivity).

•Personality Traits: Heritable traits like extroversion

(sociability) and neuroticism (anxiety) influence
emotional experiences.

•Neurotransmitter Systems: Genetic variations

affecting neurotransmitter levels (like dopamine and
serotonin) impact mood regulation.

•Resilience: Genetic influence on the ability to cope

Intentional Activities (Approximately 40-50%):

This is the area where individuals have the most control over their
happiness:
•Positive Relationships: Strong social connections with family,
friends, and romantic partners provide support, belonging, and a
sense of purpose.
•Acts of Kindness and Giving: Helping others, volunteering, and
engaging in charitable activities boost happiness.
•Mindfulness and Meditation: Practices that promote present
moment awareness, reducing stress and increasing emotional
regulation.
•Gratitude: Regularly expressing appreciation for what one has
shifts focus towards positivity.
•Physical Exercise: Improves physical and mental health, boosts
endorphins, and reduces stress.
•Meaningful Activities and Goals: Pursuing activities aligned with
personal values and setting achievable goals provide purpose and
accomplishment.
•Positive Self-Talk and Cognitive Restructuring: Challenging
negative thoughts and replacing them with positive and realistic
ones.
•Stress Management Techniques: Developing effective strategies
Life Circumstances (Approximately 10%):

While less influential than often believed, certain life

circumstances impact happiness:
•Income: While wealth does correlate with happiness
up to a certain point (sufficient to meet basic needs),
beyond that, the relationship weakens.
•Health: Good physical and mental health
significantly contributes to well-being.
•Marital Status: Being married is often associated
with higher happiness, but this depends on the
quality of the relationship.
•Employment: Meaningful work and job satisfaction
are linked to happiness.
•Social Support: The presence of a strong social
network provides a buffer against stress and
adversity.
•Education: Higher levels of education are often
Interactions and Nuances:

It's crucial to understand that these factors don't act in isolation.

They interact in complex ways:

•Gene-Environment Interaction: Genetic predispositions can

influence how individuals respond to life events and experiences.

•The Importance of Fit: Happiness is often maximized when life

circumstances align with personal values and goals.

•Resilience as a Moderator: Individuals with high resilience can

navigate challenging circumstances with greater emotional
stability.

•The Power of Choice: Even within the constraints of life

circumstances, individuals can significantly influence their
happiness through intentional activities and mindset.

In summary, happiness is not solely determined by fate or

circumstances. While genetic factors and life events play a role,
intentional activities and a proactive approach to well-being
significantly contribute to lasting happiness. A holistic approach
that considers these interacting factors is essential for
understanding and enhancing individual happiness.
 Types of Happiness
While there isn't a universally agreed-upon, rigid classification of "types"
of happiness, different perspectives and research highlight various
aspects of happiness that can be categorized in several ways. These
categories often overlap, and a person's experience of happiness is
usually a complex interplay of several factors. Here are a few ways to
think about different facets of happiness:

1. Hedonic Happiness vs. Eudaimonic Happiness: This is a

common distinction:
•Hedonic Happiness: This refers to pleasure-based happiness, the
feeling of enjoyment and contentment derived from positive
experiences and the absence of negative ones. It's often associated with
fleeting moments of joy and gratification. Think of the pleasure of eating
a delicious meal or watching a funny movie.

•Eudaimonic Happiness: This represents a deeper, more meaningful

type of happiness, linked to living a purposeful life aligned with one's
values and strengths. It emphasizes self-realization, growth, and
contribution to something larger than oneself. This type of happiness
The Origins of the Concept of Hedonic Happiness

The idea of hedonic happiness dates back to the 4th

century B.C., when a Greek philosopher, Aristippus,
taught that the ultimate goal in life should be to
maximize pleasure. Throughout history, several
philosophers have adhered to this hedonic
viewpoint, including Hobbes and Bentham.
Psychologists who study happiness from a hedonic
perspective cast a wide net by conceptualizing
hedonia in terms of pleasures of both the mind and
body. In this view, happiness involves maximizing
pleasure and minimizing pain.
In American culture, hedonic happiness is often
championed as the ultimate goal. Popular culture
tends to portray an outgoing, social, joyous view of
life. As a result, Americans often believe that
Origins of the Concept of Eudaimonic Happiness

Eudaimonic happiness gets less attention in American

culture as a whole but is no less important in the
psychological research of happiness and well-being.
Like hedonia, the concept of eudaimonia dates back to
the 4th century B.C., when Aristotle first proposed it
in his work, Nicomachean Ethics. According to
Aristotle, to achieve happiness, one should live their
life in accordance with their virtues. He claimed
people constantly strive to meet their potential and be
their best selves, leading to greater purpose and
meaning.
Like the hedonic perspective, several philosophers
aligned themselves with the eudaimonic perspective,
including Plato, Marcus Aurelius, and Kant.
Psychological theories like Maslow’s hierarchy of
needs, which points to self-actualization as the highest
goal in life, champion a eudaimonic perspective on
Hedonic Adaptation

Eudaimonic and hedonic happiness both appear to serve a

purpose in overall well-being

Hedonic adaptation, also referred to as the "hedonic treadmill,"

people have a baseline of happiness they return to no matter
what happens in their lives.

Psychological research has shown we all have a happiness set

point. Psychologist Sonya Lyubomirsky has outlined three
components that contribute to that set point and how much
each matters.
• 50% of an individual’s happiness set point is determined by
genetics.
•10% is the result of circumstances that are out of one’s control,
like where they’re born and who their parents are.
•40% of one’s happiness set point is under their control.
• Hedonic adaptation is most likely to occur when one engages in
fleeting pleasures.

• This kind of enjoyment can improve mood but this is only

temporary.

• One way to combat a return to your happiness set point is to

engage in more eudaimonic activities.

• Meaningful activities like engaging in hobbies require greater

thought and effort than hedonic activities, which require little to
no exertion to enjoy.

• Hedonic activities become less effective at evoking happiness over

time, eudaimonic activities become more effective.

This may make it seem like the path to happiness is eudaimonia, but
it’s not always practical to engage in activities that evoke
eudaimonic happiness. If you’re feeling sad or stressed, often
treating yourself to a simple hedonic pleasure—like eating dessert
or listening to a favorite song—can be a quick mood booster
requiring a lot less effort than engaging in a eudaimonic activity.
Happiness as a State vs. Happiness as a Trait:
•Happiness as a State: This refers to temporary feelings of
happiness or joy that arise in response to specific events or
circumstances. These states are fleeting and depend on external
factors.

•Happiness as a Trait: This represents a person's overall

disposition or tendency towards happiness. It's a more stable
and enduring characteristic, reflecting a general sense of well-
being and life satisfaction. This trait is influenced by both
genetics and learned behaviors.

Different Emotional Components of Happiness:

Happiness isn't a singular emotion, but rather a complex
interplay of positive feelings. These might include:
•Joy: A feeling of great pleasure and happiness.
•Contentment: A state of peaceful happiness and satisfaction.
•Pride: Positive emotion related to accomplishment and self-
worth.
•Love: Feeling deep affection and attachment.
Types of Happiness Based on Source:

Happiness can also be categorized based on its source:

•Internal Happiness: This arises from within, driven by

personal values, strengths, and self-acceptance. It's less
dependent on external factors.

•External Happiness: This comes from external rewards,

achievements, or possessions. While it can be pleasurable, it is
often less stable and sustainable.

It's important to understand that these categories are not

mutually exclusive. True, lasting happiness often involves a
blend of hedonic and eudaimonic aspects, and individuals may
experience various emotional components of happiness
throughout their lives. The pursuit of well-being often
incorporates cultivating both types of happiness and
developing skills to regulate emotions effectively.
 Affectivity
Affectivity refers to the experience and expression of emotions. It
encompasses the range, intensity, and duration of emotional responses,
as well as the individual's overall predisposition to experience positive or
negative emotions. While there isn't a universally agreed-upon taxonomy
of "types" of affectivity, it can be usefully categorized in several ways:

1. Positive Affectivity (PA) vs. Negative Affectivity (NA):

This is the most common and widely studied distinction. It represents two
broad dimensions of temperament:

•Positive Affectivity (PA): A general tendency to experience positive

emotions such as joy, enthusiasm, energy, and interest. Individuals high in
PA are typically cheerful, optimistic, and sociable.

•Negative Affectivity (NA): A general tendency to experience negative

emotions such as fear, anxiety, anger, guilt, and sadness. Individuals high
in NA are typically prone to worry, irritability, and distress.

These are dimensions, not categories, meaning individuals can score high
on both, low on both, or high on one and low on the other. The ideal is
often described as high PA and low NA.
Positive Affectivity (PA):

•Definition: PA refers to a general tendency to experience positive

emotions, such as joy, enthusiasm, energy, and interest. Individuals
high in PA are typically cheerful, optimistic, and sociable. They tend to
approach life with a sense of energy and engagement.

•Characteristics of High PA:

• Cheerful and optimistic

• Energetic and active
• Sociable and outgoing
• Confident and self-assured
• Approachable and friendly
• Generally satisfied with life

•Consequences of High PA:

• Better physical health

• Stronger social relationships
• Greater resilience to stress
• Increased job satisfaction
• Higher levels of life satisfaction
Negative Affectivity (NA):

•Definition: NA refers to a general tendency to experience negative

emotions, such as fear, anxiety, anger, guilt, and sadness. Individuals
high in NA are typically prone to worry, irritability, and distress. They
often view the world and themselves negatively.

•Characteristics of High NA:

• Anxious and worried

• Irritable and easily frustrated
• Tense and nervous
• Sad and unhappy
• Prone to feelings of guilt and shame
• Often dissatisfied with life

•Consequences of High NA:

• Increased risk of mental health problems (depression, anxiety)

• Poorer physical health
• More strained social relationships
• Reduced job satisfaction
• Lower levels of life satisfaction
Relationship Between PA and NA:

While PA and NA are distinct, they are not

independent. It's possible for individuals to score high
on both (meaning they experience both positive and
negative emotions intensely), low on both
(experiencing a relatively flat emotional range), or high
on one and low on the other. The ideal balance is often
described as high PA and low NA. However, most
individuals fall somewhere along the spectrum,
exhibiting varying degrees of both positive and
negative affectivity.

Measurement:

PA and NA are typically measured using self-report

questionnaires, such as the Positive and Negative
Affect Schedule (PANAS). These questionnaires assess
Importance:

Understanding PA and NA is important for

several reasons:
•Personality Assessment: They are valuable
dimensions in understanding personality and
predicting behavior.
•Mental Health: High NA is a significant risk
factor for various mental health problems.
•Physical Health: Both PA and NA have
implications for physical health outcomes.
•Work and Relationships: PA and NA affect
job performance, interpersonal relationships,
and overall life satisfaction.
Affectivity Based on Valence and Arousal:

Emotions can be categorized based on two key dimensions:

valence (positive or negative) and arousal (high or low). This
framework creates four quadrants:

•High Positive Valence, High Arousal: Emotions like

excitement, enthusiasm, and elation.

•High Positive Valence, Low Arousal: Emotions like

contentment, calmness, and peacefulness.

•High Negative Valence, High Arousal: Emotions like anger,

fear, and anxiety.

•High Negative Valence, Low Arousal: Emotions like sadness,

depression, and boredom.

This model helps understand the different emotional experiences,

Affectivity as a Trait vs. State:

This distinction refers to the stability and context of

emotional experiences:

•Affectivity as a Trait: This refers to an individual's

enduring predisposition to experience positive or
negative emotions. It's a relatively stable personality
characteristic.

•Affectivity as a State: This refers to temporary

emotional experiences triggered by specific events or
situations. It's more context-dependent and less stable
over time.
Understanding this distinction helps separate an
individual's general emotional tendency from their
immediate emotional state.
Affectivity and its Relationship to other
Constructs:

Affectivity is closely related to other psychological

constructs:

•Mood: A more diffuse and sustained emotional

state, often less intense than specific emotions.

•Temperament: Innate predispositions towards

certain emotional patterns.

•Personality: Broader patterns of thinking, feeling,

and behaving, of which affectivity is one component.

•Well-being: Positive affectivity is a strong predictor

of overall well-being.
 Causes of Happiness
Genetic Factors (Set Point):
Research suggests that approximately 40-50% of an individual's
happiness level is determined by genetics. This inherent predisposition
towards a certain level of happiness doesn't mean it's unchangeable;
rather, it provides a baseline upon which other factors act. This
genetic influence includes things like temperament, personality traits
(e.g., extroversion, neuroticism), and biological factors affecting
neurotransmitter levels (like dopamine and serotonin).

•Temperament: Innate differences in emotional reactivity and self-

regulation are partly genetically determined.
•Personality Traits: Traits like extroversion (sociability and energy)
and neuroticism (tendency towards anxiety and negative emotions)
are significantly heritable. Neurotransmitter Systems: Genes
influence the efficiency and regulation of neurotransmitter systems,
particularly those involving dopamine (associated with reward and
pleasure) and serotonin (linked to mood regulation).
•Resilience: Genetic factors can influence resilience, the ability to
Intentional Activities (40-50%):
This is where conscious choices and actions significantly impact
happiness levels. Research consistently demonstrates that proactively
engaging in certain behaviors can significantly boost happiness:

•Positive Relationships: Strong social connections are crucial.

Meaningful relationships with family, friends, and romantic partners
provide support, belonging, and a sense of purpose. Investing time and
effort in these relationships is essential.
•Gratitude: Regularly practicing gratitude—expressing appreciation
for what one has—shifts focus from what's lacking to what's present,
increasing positive emotions. Keeping a gratitude journal or simply
taking time to reflect on things one is thankful for can make a
considerable difference.
•Giving Back: Acts of kindness, generosity, and altruism trigger the
release of endorphins, promoting positive feelings and a sense of
purpose. Volunteering, helping others, and engaging in charitable
activities are associated with increased happiness.
•Mindfulness and Meditation: These practices enhance self-
awareness and emotional regulation, reducing stress and promoting
inner peace. Mindfulness helps individuals to focus on the present
moment, lessening the impact of worries about the past or future.
Physical Exercise: Regular physical activity boosts endorphin
levels, improving mood and reducing stress. The benefits extend
beyond the physical; exercise contributes to a sense of
accomplishment and improved self-esteem.
Meaningful Activities: Engaging in activities that align with
personal values and goals fosters a sense of purpose and
fulfillment. Pursuing hobbies, developing skills, and working
towards meaningful objectives increases life satisfaction.
Goal Setting: Setting and achieving goals, both big and small,
provides a sense of accomplishment and boosts self-esteem. It's
important to set realistic and achievable goals to avoid
disappointment.
Positive Self-Talk: Challenging negative thoughts and replacing
them with more positive and realistic ones can dramatically shift
one's emotional state. This involves actively identifying negative
self-criticism and reframing it into constructive self-compassion.
Life Circumstances (10%)

While the impact of life circumstances on happiness is less significant

than often assumed, it's not negligible:
•Basic Needs: Meeting fundamental needs like food, shelter, safety,
and security is essential for well-being. Extreme poverty and lack of
basic necessities can significantly impact happiness.
•Health: Good physical and mental health are crucial. Chronic illness
or significant health challenges can have a profound negative impact
on happiness.
•Relationships (Again): Strong social support networks significantly
buffer against life's stressors. The quality of our relationships plays a
critical role in overall well-being.
•Meaning and Purpose: Finding meaning and purpose in life can
provide resilience in the face of adversity.
In summary, happiness is a complex interplay of nature (genetics) and
nurture (intentional activities and life circumstances).
 Effect of Happiness
Physical Health Benefits:

•Improved cardiovascular health (lower blood pressure, better

heart rate variability)
•Stronger immune system (enhanced antibody production,
increased NK cell activity)
•Faster wound healing
•Reduced pain perception
•Improved sleep quality
•Increased lifespan

Mental Health Benefits:

•Reduced stress and anxiety

•Improved cognitive function (attention, memory, creativity)
•Increased resilience to adversity
•Lower risk of depression and anxiety
•Enhanced self-esteem and self-compassion
•Improved emotional regulation
Social and Relationship Benefits:

•Stronger and more fulfilling relationships

•Increased social support networks
•Improved communication and conflict resolution
•Greater empathy and compassion
•Increased altruism and prosocial behavior

Productivity and Performance Benefits:

•Enhanced focus and concentration

•Increased motivation and engagement
•Improved creativity and innovation
•Better decision-making
•Greater perseverance and resilience
•Improved teamwork and collaboration
•Reduced burnout and absenteeism
Culture and Happiness
Culture significantly influences the experience and expression of
happiness. What constitutes happiness, how it's pursued, and even
how it's defined can vary dramatically across different cultures.
Understanding these cultural variations is crucial for a comprehensive
understanding of well-being.
1. Cultural Definitions of Happiness:
The very concept of happiness is not universal. Different cultures may
prioritize different aspects of well-being:
•Individualistic Cultures (e.g., United States, Western Europe):
Happiness is often defined in terms of individual achievement, self-
esteem, and personal fulfillment. Emphasis is placed on individual
autonomy, self-expression, and the pursuit of personal goals.
•Collectivistic Cultures (e.g., East Asian countries, many Latin
American countries): Happiness is more frequently defined in terms
of social harmony, interpersonal relationships, and contributing to the
group. Emphasis is placed on fulfilling social roles, maintaining family
and community ties, and prioritizing group needs over individual
desires.
•Variations Within Cultures: Even within a single culture, there can
be significant variations in the understanding and experience of
Cultural Influences on Happiness Pursuit:

Different cultures adopt different approaches to achieving happiness:

•Materialism vs. Spirituality: Individualistic cultures often prioritize
material wealth and achievement as pathways to happiness.
Collectivistic cultures may place a greater emphasis on spiritual
practices, community engagement, and interpersonal relationships.
•Emphasis on Emotions: Some cultures encourage open expression
of emotions, while others prioritize emotional regulation and restraint.
This affects how happiness is experienced and displayed.
•Social Norms and Expectations: Cultural norms regarding
marriage, family, career success, and social status can significantly
impact an individual's sense of happiness and well-being. Meeting
these expectations can be a source of happiness, while failure to meet
them can lead to distress.
•Life Goals and Values: Cultural values shape individual goals and
aspirations, which in turn influence happiness. For instance, in some
cultures, academic achievement is highly valued, while in others,
artistic expression or entrepreneurship may be prioritized. The pursuit
and achievement of culturally valued goals can contribute to a sense
of fulfillment and happiness.
Relationship and Happiness
The correlation between relationships and happiness is strong, but
complex and not always directly proportional. Research consistently
shows a positive correlation: people in strong, supportive relationships
tend to report higher levels of happiness and well-being than those who
are isolated or in unhappy relationships.

However, it's crucial to understand the nuances:

•Type of Relationship Matters: The type of relationship significantly

impacts happiness. Strong, positive relationships with family, friends,
and romantic partners contribute positively. Conversely, strained or
abusive relationships can severely diminish happiness.

•Quality over Quantity: The quality of relationships is more important

than the quantity. A few close, supportive relationships are generally
more beneficial to happiness than many superficial ones.
•Bidirectional Relationship: The relationship between happiness
and relationships is often bidirectional. Happier individuals may be
better equipped to build and maintain healthy relationships, and
strong relationships, in turn, contribute to increased happiness.

•Individual Differences: Individual personalities and experiences

influence how much a relationship impacts happiness. Some people
are more extroverted and derive more happiness from social
interaction, while others are more introverted and find fulfillment in
solitude.

•Other Factors: Happiness isn't solely determined by

relationships. Other factors like career satisfaction, physical health,
and personal values also play significant roles.

In summary, while strong, positive relationships are strongly

correlated with happiness, it's not a simple cause-and-effect
relationship. The quality of relationships, individual differences, and
other life factors all contribute to overall well-being.
Several factors within a relationship itself significantly enhance
happiness. These can be grouped into categories:

1. Communication & Emotional Intimacy:

•Open and Honest Communication: The ability to openly share
thoughts, feelings, and needs without fear of judgment is crucial. This
includes both expressing positive emotions and addressing conflicts
constructively.
•Active Listening: Truly listening to and understanding your
partner's perspective, showing empathy and validating their feelings.
•Emotional Intimacy: Sharing vulnerabilities, feeling understood and
supported, and experiencing a deep sense of connection.
•Shared Humor and Playfulness: Laughter and lightheartedness
strengthen bonds and create positive memories.

2. Shared Values & Goals:

•Alignment on Core Values: Sharing fundamental beliefs and
principles provides a strong foundation for the relationship.
•Shared Goals & Aspirations: Working towards common goals,
whether big or small, creates a sense of teamwork and shared
purpose.
•Mutual Respect for Individuality: Valuing each other's unique
interests, hobbies, and personal space.
3. Support & Affection:
•Emotional Support: Providing comfort, encouragement, and
understanding during challenging times.
•Physical Affection: Expressing love and connection through physical
touch, such as hugs, kisses, or holding hands.
•Acts of Service: Showing love and care through actions, such as
helping with chores or running errands.
•Gift-Giving: Thoughtful gifts, even small ones, can show appreciation
and strengthen the bond.

4. Conflict Resolution & Problem-Solving:

•Healthy Conflict Resolution: The ability to navigate disagreements
constructively, focusing on finding solutions rather than assigning blame.
•Compromise and Negotiation: Willingness to compromise and find
mutually acceptable solutions.
•Forgiveness: The ability to forgive mistakes and move forward fosters
trust and strengthens the relationship.

5. Shared Experiences & Activities:

•Quality Time Together: Prioritizing time spent together, engaging in
activities you both enjoy.
•Creating Shared Memories: Building a history of positive experiences
together.
•Adventure & Exploration: Trying new things together fosters
 Geography of Bliss
The concept of a "geography of bliss" suggests that certain
geographical locations might be more conducive to happiness
than others. While there's no single definitive answer, research
and anecdotal evidence point to several factors that could
contribute to a region's happiness levels:

•Climate: Generally, moderate climates are associated with

higher levels of well-being. Extreme heat or cold can be stressful
and impact mood. However, the influence of climate is complex
and interacts with other factors.

•Economic Prosperity: Regions with higher average incomes

and lower unemployment rates tend to have happier
populations. However, wealth alone doesn't guarantee
happiness; income inequality can be a significant factor.

•Social Support and Community: Strong social networks and

a sense of community are consistently linked to happiness.
•Political Stability and Safety: A stable political environment and a
low crime rate contribute significantly to people's sense of security and
well-being.

•Access to Healthcare and Education: Good healthcare and access

to quality education improve physical and mental health, both of which
are crucial for happiness.

•Cultural Factors: Cultural values and norms play a role in shaping

happiness levels. Cultures that prioritize social connection, family, and
strong community ties may see higher rates of reported happiness.

•Environmental Quality: Access to green spaces, clean air, and a

pleasant environment can significantly impact well-being.

It's crucial to note that these factors are interconnected and influence
each other. For example, a prosperous economy can lead to better
healthcare and education, while a strong sense of community can
buffer against the negative impacts of economic hardship.

Defining a specific "geography of bliss" is challenging because

happiness is subjective and influenced by many individual factors.
However, research consistently points to the importance of the factors
mentioned above in fostering happier populations at the regional level.
 Conclusion
A MAN BECOMES HAPPY AS MUCH AS HE
DECICED TO BE! HAPPINESS IS INSIDE YOU!
 Reference
• Irvin Yalom – Existential Psychotherapy;
• Abraham Maslow – Motivation and Personality;
• Erich Fromm – Escape From Freedom;
• Aristotle – Nicomachean Ethics;
• Dalai Lama – The Art of Happiness;
• Razmik Aydinyan – The Treatise about Happiness;
• Bertrand Russell – The Conquest of Happiness;
• Maxwell Maltz – Psycho-Cybernetics;
• Maya Bessarab - So Landau Said.
Thank You for Attention!