Recently in one of my classes, we were assigned to read an article written by David Brooks for The Columbus Dispatch in 2010 titled, "Americans don't pay enough attention to things that matter." This article explores the notion that modern Americans tend to equate happiness and well-being with income and quality of life.
Granted, money is extremely important and necessary in society in order to sustain a healthy life, but most people take that idea to extremes and believe that the wealthier a person is, the happier they are. American society has become frighteningly superficial, especially with the adoption of social media in our everyday lives. I have seen firsthand people posting pictures of money, the new car or house they just purchased, or expensive gifts they received from loved ones. While they are indeed proud of these things and want to share it with everyone, does it necessarily mean that they are happier?
Brooks makes an intriguing argument saying that most schools and colleges spend far too much time preparing students for professional success and careers rather than the value of social life and interpersonal relationships. While it is unclear the extent to which one can teach relationship building with friends, significant others, co-workers, etc., research has proven that these relationships provide us with more happiness than any amount of money could buy.
According to Brooks, "economic and and professional success exists on the surface of life, and that they emerge out of interpersonal relationships, which are much deeper and more important." The core of our happiness comes not only from our relationships with others, but simply the small things in life. Things that are so small yet they just give you that inherent feeling of comfort, joy, or peace with yourself. So if you're feeling like you need more reasons to be happy, here are 15 simple definitions of happiness:
1. Going to your favorite coffeeshop and smelling its distinct aroma
2. Reconnecting with an old friend of whom you haven't spoken to in years
3. Attending a game of your favorite sports team, and having them win
4. Seeing a dog on your way to work or class
5. Spending the night with your best friends, whether it is going out or staying in and ordering pizza
6. Going on a walk while listening to your favorite music
7. The feeling after a great workout
8. Playing a board game or video game you used to play all the time when you were little
9. Being in the middle of a good book that you cannot put down
10. Looking at old photos and reminiscing about some of your favorite memories
11. Taking time out of your day to talk to your parents
12. Seeing your best friend for the first time after being apart for a while
13. Waking up from a good nights sleep on a Sunday morning
14. Discovering a new TV series and binge-watching every episode
15. Imagining those perfect scenarios in your head before going to sleep
16. Having something on your calendar to look forward to every month
17. Eating your favorite meal for dinner
18. Having that feeling of knowing you are meant to be where you are
