While these major events do make us happy at first, research shows this happiness doesn’t last. A study from Northwestern University measured the happiness levels of regular people against those who had won large lottery prizes the year prior. The researchers were surprised to discover that the happiness ratings of both groups were practically identical.
The mistaken notion that major life events dictate your happiness and sadness is so prevalent that psychologists have a name for it: impact bias. The reality is, event-based happiness is fleeting.
Happiness is synthetic—you either create it, or you don’t. Happiness that lasts is earned through your habits. Supremely happy people have honed habits that maintain their happiness day in, day out. Try out their habits, and see what they do for you:
1. They slow down to appreciate life’s little pleasures.
2. They exercise.
3. They spend money on other people.
4. They surround themselves with the right people.
5. They stay positive.
6. They get enough sleep.
7. They have deep conversations.
8. They help others.
9. They make an effort to be happy.
10. They have a growth mindset.
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-- Travis Bradberry
