The Science Behind Happiness
Written by: Holly Smith, Executive Contributor
Executive Contributors at Brainz Magazine are handpicked and invited to contribute because of their knowledge and valuable insight within their area of expertise.
Happiness is a feeling that everyone strives for, but many struggle to achieve and maintain. While there are numerous factors that can contribute to our happiness ‒ ranging from lifestyle choices all the way down to genetics ‒ science has also identified numerous ways that we can use to help promote and sustain positive emotions.
Neurological Responses
One of the first steps in understanding how to become happier involves looking at our neurological responses. Studies have found that when experiencing positive emotions, our brains respond by releasing dopamine, norepinephrine, and serotonin ‒ three mood-enhancing chemicals. Dopamine is associated with feelings of pleasure and reward, while norepinephrine contributes to alertness and energy levels; serotonin helps regulate our sleep cycles, moods, and social behaviour. When we experience these chemicals in response to something positive, it can help us feel more satisfied with our lives.
Personal Connection
Another factor that affects our happiness is personal connection. Numerous studies suggest that having strong relationships with friends and family helps us feel emotionally supported and fulfilled. This doesn’t just apply to family members – close friendships are also important factors in maintaining positive mental health and emotional stability. And it’s not just about having people around you – how you interact with them matters too! Making sure you stay present when interacting with loved ones, taking time away from technology or screens during conversations, being mindful of your body language during conversations – all of these interpersonal skills can contribute to a healthier relationship dynamic overall.
Purpose & Direction
Finally, research has found that having a sense of purpose or direction in life can often increase one’s level of happiness as well as motivation levels. People who set goals for themselves tend to be more content than those who don’t – whether this means joining a club or organisation, taking up hobbies or new activities outside of work/school hours, or even just setting small achievable targets for yourself on a daily basis (like tackling one task each day). Setting intentions like this can help make us feel more productive over time which ultimately boosts confidence levels – another key element for long-term happiness!
Ultimately it's important to remember that achieving long-lasting happiness takes effort and dedication ‒ like any other goal in life! But if we keep these scientific methods in mind - from incorporating healthy chemical reactions into our lives through rewarding activities all the way down to staying present in relationships with others ‒ then we may find ourselves on the path towards reaching our own personal version of sustainable blissful contentment!
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Holly Smith, Executive Contributor Brainz Magazine
Holly Smith is an entrepreneur, accountability coach & author of 30 days To Happiness. She coaches entrepreneurs who NEED the clarity, structure & discipline to reach their full potential. Also known as the CEO of Biz Fit, an online personal training platform for busy individuals. Feeling lost in her teenage years and amongst several mental health challenges, Holly had a miraculous healing which led her to now fulfil her mission: To change the world one habit at a time. Her purpose: To Help individuals wake up happier every single day.
