Many people link happiness to improved circumstances or achieving goals, but recent research in psychology suggests that feelings of satisfaction do not depend on luck or chance as much as they are linked to daily habits and repeated decisions that shape long-term quality of life.

According to a report published by Psychology Today, recent studies see that happiness is not just a transient mood, but the result of a balanced lifestyle based on human relationships, time management, trying new experiences, giving, and connecting with nature.

Friends and happiness (iStock)

Strong relationships

The Harvard Study of Adult Development, which followed participants for more than 80 years, confirms that the quality of social relationships is the most influential factor in happiness, health, and longevity, surpassing wealth, career success, and even intelligence level.

Researchers believe that what is known as 'social fitness' is no less important than exercising or getting enough sleep, as it requires continuous attention to maintain strong relationships with family and friends.

Friends and happiness (iStock)

The value of time

Among the most prominent findings of behavioral science research is that the constant feeling of time scarcity is associated with lower life satisfaction and increased psychological stress.

Researcher Ashley Whillans from Harvard Business School found that people who suffer from constant burnout and lack of control over their time report lower levels of happiness, while using money to save time, such as delegating some tasks or reducing commitments, positively impacts mental health more than spending it on possessions.

Experts advise asking a simple question before any career or financial decision: Will this decision give me more time or consume it?

Constant burnout (iStock)

New experiences

According to a study published in 2022 in the journal Psychological Review, a happy life is not limited to seeking pleasure or meaning, but also includes what is known as 'psychological richness'. This richness is achieved through having new experiences, such as traveling, learning different skills, facing challenges, and engaging in experiences that leave a lasting impact, even if they are not comfortable in the moment.

The joy of giving

A scientific review published in 2023, which included dozens of studies across different cultures, revealed that spending money or time to help others is associated with higher levels of happiness and life satisfaction, regardless of income level.

Researchers believe that helping others strengthens social bonds, activates reward centers in the brain, and gives people a greater sense of impact and importance.

Expressive of happiness - iStock

The magic of nature

Nature is not absent from the list of habits that affect mental health. A study published in 2019 in the journal Scientific Reports, after analyzing data from about 20,000 people, found that spending at least two hours a week in natural settings is associated with a significant improvement in mental and psychological health.

Researchers attribute this to the fact that being in nature reduces stress levels, limits overthinking, and helps the brain regain focus, which has led them to consider it an essential element for maintaining psychological balance, not just a means of entertainment.

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