The Happiness Formula

Lesson 3

In this lesson, let us consider the happiness equation:

H = S + C + V

where H represents the enduring level of happiness, S is the set range, C is the circumstances of life and V represents the variables under our voluntary control.

ENDURING LEVEL OF HAPPINESS: H

The enduring level of happiness is different from momentary happiness. Momentary level of happiness may change with small burst of positive feelings.

SET RANGE: S

Almost 50% of our inherent happiness level is genetic. This means that we can only be as happy as our parents or grandparents. That is the set range of happiness.

Furthermore, there are two barriers to becoming happier:

The Happiness Thermostat:

Whether good fortune comes our way or misfortune strikes, the built-in happiness thermostat reverts us to our personal set range.

The Hedonic Treadmill:

This causes you to adapt to good things rapidly. As you accumulate material possessions and accomplishments, your expectations rise.

CIRCUMSTANCES: C

It’s possible, but sometimes impractical, to bring about increase in happiness level by changing life circumstances. Only 10% of our happiness depends on the circumstances of life. 

Let us consider how some circumstances impact happiness:

Money:

Wealth is necessary for life satisfaction but, beyond a certain level, added wealth brings no further life satisfaction. People who value money more than other goals are less satisfied with their life.

Marriage:

Married people are happier than unmarried people.

Health:

Objective health is barely related to happiness; what matters is our subjective perception of how healthy we are. Moderate ill health does not lead to unhappiness but severe illness does.

Education, Climate, Race, and Gender:

None of them much matters for happiness.

Religion:

Religious people are somewhat more happier and more satisfied with life than nonreligious people.

Place of stay:

To be happier, live in a wealthy democracy, not in an impoverished dictatorship.

FACTORS UNDER VOLUNTARY CONTROL: V

The good news is that 40% of happiness depends on factors under our voluntary control. If you decide to change them, and make the required efforts in the direction, your level of happiness is likely to increase lastingly.

Positive emotion - satisfaction about the past, optimism about the future and happiness in the present - may be enhanced with real effort. We will learn about happiness activities to reach upper levels of happiness in a subsequent chapter.

Jagat Singh Bisht

Founder: LifeSkills