Happiness is one of the most desirable emotional states in human life. A sense of fulfilment in life is defined as happiness. Being happy doesn't mean being comfortable and smiling; it is about ease with your environment and that of you. Joy and pleasure are only one aspect of happiness; other components include having a purpose, fostering connections, feeling contentment and preserving emotional stability. There are two types of happiness: hedonic happiness, which centres on pleasure and gratification; and eudaimonic happiness, which focuses on purpose, growth and self-realisation.
Everyone aspires to be happy; however, the World Health Organisation estimates that anxiety and depression affect one billion people worldwide. Anxiety and sadness increased by 25 per cent globally during the initial months of the Covid-19 pandemic. In a 2024 Ipsos survey conducted in 31 countries, 62 per cent of participants reported feeling depressed. Furthermore, since 2011, people's happiness has declined in 15 out of 20 Asian countries compared to the 14 years preceding it. According to a YouGov survey, 87 per cent of UK respondents stated they would rather live in a society with ‘the happiness and wellbeing’ than ‘the overall wealth (13 per cent)’, a sentiment consistent across all age groups and socioeconomic classes. Further research from Stanford University revealed that happiness is more than merely feeling great; it can influence general enjoyment, productivity and health.
Long-term happiness depends on strong relationships. Encouraging friendships, devoted family ties and emotional anchors are key. Spending time with people who make us feel good and appreciated is vital to our wellbeing. The Harvard Study of Adult Development, which has been running for more than 80 years, emphasises that a single element in people’s happiness is having ‘satisfying relationships’. By helping others, we elevate ourselves, release ‘helper's high’ hormones, strengthen our bonds and enhance our mood and wellbeing. Islam views compassionate and generous deeds (sadaqah) as not only an obligation but also an opportunity for happiness and spiritual fulfilment.
Continuous reflection on the past can lead to dissatisfaction and friction. As we cannot change the past, it is wise to forgive and learn from it rather than to repent. Your present and future appear bright and joyful when you accept your past and forgive your younger self. Further, being present leads to calmness and clarity. Recognising that happiness often lies within the present moment is beneficial to individuals. Being really present allows us to appreciate life as it happens rather than hurrying through it.
You must accept the events that occur in your life and decide how to respond to each. Resilience and contentment can increase when challenges are viewed as learning opportunities rather than threats. Inner serenity and tranquillity may result from accepting mistakes as necessary parts of one’s journey. As well, stop overthinking the future. As the Roman philosopher Seneca said, the majority of our misery stems from the anxieties, concerns and hypothetical situations we imagine in our thoughts, rather than actual occurrences. In most cases, whatever we plan will happen successfully, even though our thoughts often exaggerate pain or danger that has not actually occurred.
Acceptance is bliss; accepting your mistakes and valuing your work can lead to happiness. Although you may not always have control over events, you have control over your response to them. Also, focusing on what matters most to you leads to deeper happiness and lasting contentment. People often find happiness by pursuing their passions rather than their primary careers. For example, in India, a chartered accountant quit his profession and became a well-known food blogger with five million followers on YouTube. In the UK, a train driver became a Hollywood dubbing artist with millions of views on his video.
Overall, happiness is a fundamental human goal that requires emotional balance and meaningful connection. Do what you love and what makes you happy, even if it does not make you rich or famous. Make every effort to live an active life and do not allow yourself to forfeit your enjoyment to please others.
Dr Raja Tumati
The author is with Oman Tourism College
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