The Keys to Happiness: Findings from the Longest Scientific Study of Happiness

In a virtual talk at Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Clinical Professor of Psychiatry Dr. Robert Waldinger shared groundbreaking insights from the Harvard Study of Adult Development, the longest-running scientific study of adult life. The discussion, centered around his New York Times Bestseller The Good Life, drew an audience of over 800 participants from 44 countries, focusing on what truly brings happiness and fulfillment.

Dr. Waldinger highlighted a significant finding: strong social connections are vital for long-term health and happiness. The 85-year study, which began in 1938, tracked the lives of 725 men, initially consisting of Harvard students and juvenile delinquents from Boston. As they aged, the study found that those who maintained warm relationships were less likely to develop serious health issues such as heart disease and diabetes, and experienced slower cognitive decline. Married individuals lived longer—averaging 5-12 years longer for women and 7-17 years longer for men.

Interestingly, the study also revealed that happiness tends to increase with age. Participants reported that as they matured, they focused more on positive experiences and prioritised their relationships over material achievements. Dr. Waldinger noted that many older participants expressed regret over spending too much time at work instead of nurturing their relationships, reaffirming that their proudest achievements were centered around being good parents, partners, and friends.

Despite the increasing wealth in Western nations, Dr. Waldinger pointed to a concerning trend: as income rises past $75,000 a year, happiness levels plateau, suggesting that the pursuit of wealth does not equate to a fulfilling life. The digital age has also contributed to a “loneliness pandemic,” with many individuals lacking close confidants. In fact, studies indicate that loneliness can be as detrimental to health as smoking half a pack of cigarettes daily.

To combat these issues, Dr. Waldinger emphasised the need for intentionality in building and maintaining relationships. He suggested prioritising experiences over material possessions, as these can strengthen existing bonds or foster new connections.

The insights from Dr. Waldinger’s discussion underscore the importance of relationships in achieving a good life, a message that resonates deeply in today’s increasingly digital and often isolating world. For further details on Dr. Waldinger’s research and findings, visit Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health.