In a 2022 survey conducted by Oracle Fusion Cloud Customer Experience, it was revealed that 78% of participants would be willing to pay a premium for true happiness. Stephanie Harrison, a researcher who has spent a decade studying the science of happiness, believes that the key to finding more joy in life is not through money or success. Instead, she advocates for discovering one’s true self and using that knowledge to help others. This approach, according to Harrison, can lead to a profound sense of happiness that goes beyond material possessions or societal expectations.
Harrison’s philosophy, outlined in her book “New Happy,” challenges the traditional notions of what it means to be happy. Rather than focusing on individual achievement or competition with others, she emphasizes the importance of working together, asking for help, and lending a hand to those in need. This shift towards a more compassionate and community-focused mindset, known as ‘new happy,’ is supported by research that shows the benefits of performing acts of kindness on mental health and overall well-being.
In a study conducted in 2022, psychologists found that individuals who engaged in acts of kindness experienced significant improvements in symptoms of anxiety and depression compared to those who engaged in other activities or simply journaled their thoughts. This suggests that helping others can have a direct positive impact on our own mental and emotional well-being. Harrison believes that by reaching out to others and offering support, we fulfill a fundamental human need for connection, meaning, and purpose.
According to Harrison, helping others is not only beneficial for the recipients of our kindness but also for ourselves. By reaching out to a loved one, praising someone’s work, or simply smiling at a stranger, we can experience a sense of fulfillment that transcends personal gain. In her book, she suggests several simple actions that individuals can take to start giving back and enhancing their own happiness in the process. By cultivating a mindset of generosity and compassion, we can create a ripple effect of positivity that benefits both ourselves and those around us.
Harrison’s message is clear: true happiness lies not in the pursuit of wealth or status, but in the act of giving and supporting others. By shifting our focus from individual success to community well-being, we can tap into a deeper sense of fulfillment and joy that goes beyond fleeting moments of pleasure. Her research and practical suggestions offer a roadmap for anyone looking to increase their own happiness by helping others and fostering a spirit of kindness and generosity in their daily lives.
In a world where many are willing to pay a premium for happiness, Stephanie Harrison’s message serves as a powerful reminder that true joy can be found in the connections we make and the support we offer to others. By embracing ‘new happy’ values and actively reaching out to help those in need, we have the opportunity to create a more compassionate and fulfilling existence for ourselves and those around us. Through small acts of kindness and a focus on community well-being, we can cultivate a sense of happiness that transcends material wealth and individual achievement, creating a more meaningful and satisfying life for ourselves and those we touch.
