This is such a million-dollar question! A group of millennials were asked this question by researchers of the Harvard Study of Adult Development and the answer came as no surprise: More than 80% of the respondents believed that money or wealth would make them happy. Their second most important quest was to be famous. Their fathers and grandfathers claimed that hard work was the answer to success.
The comprehensive Harvard study is still on track after 75 years. The researchers have been studying the lives of 724 men and the 2000 offspring born out of their families since 1938. Half of the respondents were Harvard graduates and the other half came from Boston’s poorest families. Of the 724 men, 60 are still alive and well into their nineties.
An important facet of the study is to determine what makes people live happy and healthy, fulfilled lives. Respondents have had their brain function, heart rate, blood, physical and emotional state tested over the years and include both successful and less successful people – even one American president.
The outcome revealed wisdom as old as the hills: that a good life is built with good relationships. People who have invested in good friendships with loved ones, friends and community connections, have lived happier, healthier lives.
Loneliness, on the contrary, has been found to be toxic and detrimental to both physical and mental health. It has a direct negative effect on the brain and these people lived shorter lives. The sad part of this outcome, says researcher Robert Waldinger, is that one in five Americans state that they are lonely.
Good, meaningful relations protect both body and brain and seem to keep one’s memory sharper for longer. Relationships do not have to run smoothly, has been found. Arguments do not take a toll on health. High levels of on-going conflict are however, detrimental.
So it is not hard work, money or fame that adds to the quality of life. What is important is to surround yourself with good people, to actively replace work colleagues with playmates after retirement and to invest time and energy in relationships.
Investing in human capital could be the best investment for a happy and healthy old age. Makes you think, doesn’t it!
