The #1 Predictor of your Well-Being & Happiness is…
When people find out about my educational background and expertise in positive psychology and the science of well-being, they often ask me questions along the lines of “how can I be happier?” While there are so many evidence-based practices that I love sharing, the most important advice I have is to prioritize relationships. We know from decades of research that the #1 predictor of your well-being and happiness is the quality of your relationships and connections to others.
The psychologist and positive psychology researcher’s Chris Peterson’s words “other people matter” are famous within the positive psychology community. This is intuitive to most people and you already know that relationships are important. Yet, I still think it’s helpful to get a reminder of the importance of our relationships on our well-being and happiness. So, here it goes:
Humans are social beings and we need to feel connected to other people to be well. We all crave belonging; we crave to be heard and seen by others. And one of the most powerful things you can do to enhance your well-being and happiness (and potentially the well-being of others as well!) is connecting with other people in meaningful ways. (And yes, this is true even if you’re introverted!)
This is your invitation to connect with other people in meaningful ways, attend to your relationships, practice kindness, and help others. Remember that “Other People Matter.”
Practice 1: Allow yourself to nurture your relationships
Think about the relationships you have that really light you up. These can be friends, family, your significant other, colleagues, mentors, and other people in your life. How can you nurture these relationships? I invite you to make room in your schedule and prioritize these connections.
Practice 2: Be kind and find new ways to help other people
What are 3 small (or large) acts of kindness (beyond what you normally do) that you can do for the people in your life or strangers, for your local community, or to support causes you believe in? I invite you to do those things this week (without expecting anything in return).
Practice 3: Create more moments of human connection
Discovering moments of connection in your daily life can be powerful. For example, make eye contact and smile when thanking the barista for your coffee or tea. When a friend or colleague shares something they’re excited about, ask more follow-up questions! These moments may not only boost your mood but potentially also the moods of those around you.
I hope you this post inspired you to attend to your relationships! Do you have any questions or would you like more support with your well-being? Contact me to get started!
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