International Happiness Day is a global event which takes place annually on the 20th of March.
The day is a reminder that being happy is a fundamental goal and a human right. It is about embracing and recognising what makes us happy, and to help those around us who may be struggling to find happiness within themselves.
What is International Day of Happiness?
International Day of Happiness was implemented by the United Nations and its partner, Action for Happiness. The non-profit group is composed of people from 160 countries across the world whose goal is to spread awareness that progress isn’t just about economic growth, but happiness and well-being.
In 2011, the United Nations fostered a new resolution to ensure that happiness received as much priority as economic growth and opportunity and in 2013, the world’s first International Day of Happiness was celebrated. Awareness of the International Day has grown year after year since its conception.
The United Nations invites and welcomes everyone – regardless of age, gender, or anything else to join in and celebrate International Day of Happiness – whether at school, work, or at home.
The Concept of Happiness
Happiness can mean lots of different things to different people.
Some people may measure happiness on what a person has, such as possessions and wealth, work stature, and relationships. Many assume that wealth or financial freedom means that happiness is guaranteed, when in fact this is not always the case.
The definition of happiness in psychology is a state of emotional well-being experienced when things happen for a specific moment or as a positive evaluation of a person’s life or accomplishments. Happiness is a positive emotion which can be borne from affection, excitement, or interest. Physical health and mental health also play a role in well-being and happiness.
How We Measure Happiness
The feeling of happiness is subjective and is different from person to person. We can all identify when we feel happy and when we may feel other emotions such as sadness, anxiety, or even depression.
Our level of happiness can affect how we manage our daily activities. Feelings of low happiness can hinder us from taking part in events and activities and can impact our productivity. But how is happiness measured? And can it be measured?
Happiness is a feeling from within much like other emotions such as sadness or anger. It is often a misconception that feelings of happiness arise from external sources such as events or exceptional occurrences. This is not accurate, happiness can be borne from simply choosing happiness in the present moment, it doesn’t have to be measured by a specific milestone or event.
As already mentioned, many measure happiness on ‘things’ or ‘achievements’. Neither is incorrect, but they are usually only temporary feelings of happiness. We will all have witnessed those who may appear to be financially well off and have all the material items they could wish for, but still not be happy.
True happiness comes from fulfilment and contentment of oneself, and not materialistic items or temporary achievements.
Factors Influencing Happiness
Whilst it is true that being financially well off cannot bring you happiness, struggling financially can impact your general well-being and happiness, as can being dissatisfied in your job, struggling with difficult family dynamics, or feelings of loneliness. These can all have an impact on our levels of happiness and well-being.
Other factors that can impact our happiness both in a positive and negative way include:
- Social relationships
- Health and well-being
- Financial stability
- Work and career
- Sense of belonging
- Personal growth and development
- Spirituality and religion
- Environmental factors
- Major life events
- Coping strategies
- Sleep and rest
Your Happiness on International Day of Happiness
The most important factor to remember is that your happiness is unique to you and shouldn’t be measured against or compared to other people or their achievements.
The feeling of happiness is subjective and what makes you happy, it may not be the same for everyone else around you. it may also bring you different levels of happiness to those experiencing similar events.
What is important to remember is that we are social creatures who can detect when a person may not be feeling happy, and we do our best to ensure they feel comfortable and are not judged for not feeling the same way as ourselves.
So, on this year’s International Day of Happiness, share your happiness with those around you, uplift and support those who may be struggling, and embrace the day’s positive intentions.