The Importance Of Happiness

When most people think of happiness, they will often point to a certain memory or give a basic definition of the word. Furthermore, these flashbacks often take place in our childhood, a time that seemed to be consistently filled with wonder and playtime. As we grow older, we seem to lose touch with our innate happiness we have as children. Consequently, numerous adults have trouble finding happiness in their day to day lives, especially when under extreme amounts of stress from work or home life. However, it is important to understand that the country one lives in plays an important role. In recent years, many countries have started to study happiness and its affect on their citizens. Some countries, like Denmark, have highly rated GDH, or

However, the saying “money doesn’t buy happiness” applies to the number one nation. When it comes to happiness ratings, the United States is stuck in the middle of the rankings. As a country that constantly strives for greatness, the United States must make changes to improve their GDH ranking and slowly climb to the top. First of all, the United States is still recovering from economic struggles. For example, 36% of Americans do not have a retirement account, as they have little to save after bills each month (3rd Source). This economic stress plays a major role in the happiness of adults who simply wish to provide for their families. Secondly, many Americans struggle to trust their own government. According to the Quinnipiac University poll, 43% of US citizen’s claimed to be very dissatisfied with their government. The dissatisfaction can be seen in the upcoming election for the next president, especially as one of the front runners is an “outsider” from Washington. These people wish for drastic changes and reforms to America to make it the great place it once was (4th Source). Lastly, from the time they are born, many American citizens learn about the great “American Dream”. This outlook creates a drive to constantly be better and rise to the top, which, according to recent studies, also makes Americans more likely

However, countries must strive to give their citizens the happiest life possible to ensure their citizens live a long and healthy life. For example, the United States Declaration of Independence insures its citizens have the right to “life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness”. If this is the case, the United States and other countries should be working tirelessly to keep their citizens happy. The Dalai Lama once said, “Happiness is not something ready made. It comes from your own actions”. Therefore, it is necessary that each country takes its people’s happiness into its own hands and works toward a better tomorrow for all people involved. We must look at societies with high happiness rankings and apply valuable lessons to countries who are struggling. We live in an age that is struggling with mental health diseases, as millions of people combat them every day. Our happiness truly isn’t readily made; we must build a strong foundation for others who will reap the benefits of the lessons we learned from today. Our actions will help to improve and not weaken, so long as we take into account the happiness of all of those around