I’m sure you would agree when I say that happiness is a universal pursuit, something that people across the globe strive for in different ways.
But what does a truly happy life look like? Interestingly, the answer may not always be what we expect. At first glance, you might think happiness comes from wealth and luxury, but is that really the case?
You might know that Finland has been ranked the happiest country in the world for several years in a row, including 2024. In Finland, happiness is deeply rooted in the way society functions.
Trust in government, institutions, and fellow citizens is incredibly high. People feel secure because they know that systems like healthcare and education work effectively.
Beyond that, the Finns value a balanced life. Work doesn’t dominate their time, and there’s a strong emphasis on personal well-being.
Their connection to nature, coupled with their cultural mindset of sisu, a concept that emphasizes resilience and inner strength, helps them face challenging times without losing their sense of happiness.
Have you heard about the blue zones? They are regions around the world where people live exceptionally long, healthy, and happy lives.
Places like Okinawa in Japan and Sardinia in Italy are not just known for their longevity but also for the happiness of their people.
What’s their secret?
In these regions, people have a strong sense of purpose in life, which gives them something to look forward to every day. They also have tight-knit communities, where social ties are incredibly strong.
Daily life isn’t rushed or stressful, and much of their happiness comes from simple pleasures like spending time with family, tending gardens, or sharing meals.
Their diets are healthy and their lifestyles active, but perhaps the biggest takeaway is how much value they place on connection, with others and with the world around them.
In a different part of the world, the small Himalayan country of Bhutan has taken a unique approach to happiness.
Instead of focusing on Gross Domestic Product (GDP), Bhutan measures its success with Gross National Happiness (GNH).
They believe that well-being, environmental protection, cultural preservation, and good governance should be at the heart of national policy.
The Bhutanese believe that happiness is more than just about wealth, it’s about the overall quality of life.
In Denmark, the word “happiness” has become synonymous with the concept of Hygge. Hygge means those cozy and comforting moments that bring warmth and joy to everyday life.
Whether it’s enjoying a quiet evening by the fire with a good book or sharing dinner with friends, hygge is about creating spaces and moments that nourish the soul.
In Denmark, the focus isn’t on big achievements or flashy lifestyles, but on finding happiness in the small, meaningful moments.
When we look at these places – Finland, the Blue Zones, Bhutan, and Denmark, what do they all have in common?
Despite differences in geography, culture, and traditions, the people in these regions seem to have found a way to live fulfilling and content lives.
They aren’t necessarily the richest, but they are some of the happiest. How?
What does a happy life really mean? Is it about having more things?
What defines happiness in a world where so many people chase after different things?
As we dive into this blog, we’ll explore these ideas further, looking at the common threads that tie these happy places together and what we can learn from them about leading a happier life.
Could it be that the key to happiness is simpler than we think? Let’s find out.
Table of Contents
What Is the True Meaning of Happiness in Life?
When we think about happiness, we generally believe that our circumstances dictate how happy we are.
Most of us think that our happiness depends on external factors like our job, where we live, or how much money we have.
We often tell ourselves, “I’ll be happy when I get that promotion,” or “I’d be much happier if I lived somewhere else.”
While it’s true that our surroundings can influence our mood, the truth is that only a small portion of our happiness actually depends on these external circumstances.
The true meaning of happiness is more than just being in a favorable situation. It’s not about chasing the next milestone or constantly changing things to feel better.
Instead, real happiness comes from within, from cultivating a positive and happy mindset regardless of what’s happening around us.
It’s a state of mind rather than a result of events. While we can’t control everything in life, we can always control how we choose to respond to situations.
If two people face the same situation, it’s very much possible that one might feel miserable while the other stays content. This is because of their mindset and perspective.
True happiness comes from how we see life’s challenges, and it thrives when we appreciate the positives, stay grateful, and keep a hopeful mindset, even when things get tough.
Happiness is also about being content in the present moment. We often miss the joys of today by focusing too much on the future or dwelling on the past.
But true happiness means embracing where we are right now and finding peace in it, rather than constantly seeking more. True happiness comes from being mindful.
So, true happiness is not something given to us by circumstances. It’s something we create within ourselves. It is more about how we choose to live and think than about our external circumstances.
What Are the Different Types of Happiness?
Now we know that the idea of happiness is more about the mindset rather than the circumstances, it’s time to understand the different types of happiness and how they contribute to our overall well-being.
The two main types of happiness are Hedonic happiness and Eudaimonic happiness. Each brings a unique element to how we experience joy and contentment.
Hedonic Happiness
Hedonic happiness is the kind of happiness that comes from pleasure and enjoyment.
It’s the immediate, feel-good kind of happiness we get from doing things we love, like eating our favorite food, going on a vacation, or spending time with friends.
It’s about satisfying our desires, indulging in life’s pleasures, and feeling good in the moment. While Hedonic happiness can make life more enjoyable, it’s often short-term.
The joy we get from these experiences fades away quickly and then we start looking for the next pleasurable moment.
Eudaimonic Happiness
On the other hand, Eudaimonic happiness comes from living a meaningful and purposeful life. It’s about long-term fulfillment rather than short-term pleasure.
This type of happiness comes from doing things that reflect what we believe in, whether it’s helping people, focusing on personal growth, or working toward a meaningful goal.
Eudaimonic happiness might not always bring the same instant pleasure as Hedonic happiness, but it brings a deeper sense of satisfaction that lasts much longer.
You must understand that both types of happiness are important for a well-rounded and happy life.
We need moments of joy and pleasure, but we also need to feel like our lives have meaning and purpose.
Hedonic happiness can make the journey enjoyable, while Eudaimonic happiness gives it direction and depth. The key is to find a balance between the two.
What Is Considered a Happy Life?
As I said, a truly happy life is one that strikes a balance between these two types of happiness.
While one focuses on purpose and meaning, and the other on pleasure and enjoyment, both are important for a fulfilling life.
It’s not enough to simply pursue fleeting pleasures or focus only on long-term goals, true happiness lies in finding harmony between both.
Eudaimonic happiness is about living a life of purpose, having a sense of direction, and feeling that what you do matters.
It’s the kind of fulfillment that comes from personal growth, meaningful connections, and contributing to something greater than yourself.
On the other hand, Hedonic happiness is about enjoying the small moments, whether that’s sharing a laugh with friends, indulging in a delicious meal, or relaxing after a long day.
It’s the immediate pleasure and joy that make life fun and enjoyable.
A happy life is where these two types of happiness intersect. It’s about having a sense of purpose while also allowing yourself to enjoy life’s pleasures.
You don’t have to choose one over the other, in fact, you shouldn’t. The happiest people are those who find joy in both the simple moments and the bigger picture of their lives.
Living a happy life means feeling fulfilled and content, knowing that you’re on the right path, while also making time for the things that make you happy in the present.
When you combine purpose with enjoyment, you create a life that is not only meaningful but also deeply satisfying.
This balance is the key to long-term happiness and well-being.
7 Practical Tips to Be Happy in Life
Happiness isn’t something we simply stumble upon, it’s something we cultivate through intentional habits and choices.
While life has its ups and downs, there are practical steps we can take to build a more fulfilling and joyful life.
Drawing inspiration from some of the happiest people and places around the world, let’s take a look at some practical tips that can help you live a longer and happier life.
1. Find Purpose
One of the most powerful sources of eudaimonic happiness is to have a sense of purpose in life. Knowing why you get up in the morning and what you’re working toward gives your life meaning and direction.
It’s not just about having goals, it’s about feeling that what you do matters and contributes to something bigger than yourself.
The Blue Zones, the regions we talked about initially, have a very high concentration of people living long and happy lives. Having a purpose in their lives plays a significant role.
One concept that stands out is the Japanese idea of Ikigai, which translates to “reason for being.”
People in places like Okinawa, Japan, where Ikigai is a core part of life, live with a strong sense of purpose.
They believe that having something to look forward to each day, whether it’s a passion, a community role, or personal growth, is essential to both happiness and longevity.
People with a clear sense of purpose not only feel happier but also live a longer life.
In these Blue Zones, this sense of purpose is often tied to community involvement, family, or a lifelong pursuit of personal passions.
These people don’t just chase after immediate pleasures, they pursue meaningful activities that give them fulfillment and keep them engaged with life, even in their older years.
Finding your purpose doesn’t mean you need to have everything figured out.
It can be as simple as identifying what brings you joy, what you’re good at, and what you believe in.
2. Nurture Relationships and Have Quality Social Connections
We humans are social beings and our relationships play a very important role in our happiness and well-being.
Having strong, meaningful connections with others is not just a nice-to-have, it’s important for a fulfilling life.
It’s not just about having a lot of acquaintances or a busy social life, though. What truly matters is the quality of those relationships.
In the Blue Zones, where people live long and happy lives, community and social connections are at the heart of their happiness.
Whether it’s family, close friends, or neighbors, having a reliable support system is a major factor in their well-being.
People in these regions tend to prioritize spending time with loved ones, helping each other, and staying connected through shared activities.
It’s the strength and depth of these bonds, rather than the number of relationships, that makes a difference.
When we feel connected to others, we experience a sense of belonging and security. It’s comforting to know that there are people who care about us, support us, and are there when we need them.
These connections can help us navigate life’s challenges, reduce stress, and give us a sense of purpose and meaning.
On the other hand, loneliness and isolation can lead to unhappiness, anxiety, and even physical health problems.
So, we must invest time and effort into nurturing relationships that matter. Whether it’s family, friends, or colleagues, building strong bonds requires regular communication, mutual support, and genuine care.
Make time for meaningful conversations, spend quality time with your loved ones, and show appreciation for the people in your life.
Surround yourself with those who lift you up and encourage your personal growth, and be that person for others as well.
3. Live a Simple Life
In today’s fast-paced world, we generally get caught up in the hustle, constantly chasing more – more success, more possessions, more excitement.
But when it comes to happiness, sometimes less is more. Living a simple life can make you joyful, peaceful, and content.
It’s about focusing on what truly matters and letting go of the unnecessary distractions and clutter that can overwhelm us.
A great example of this can be found in Denmark’s concept of Hygge which we discussed earlier – a lifestyle centered around coziness, simplicity, and being present in the moment.
Hygge means slowing down and enjoying life’s simple pleasures like spending time with your loved ones, enjoying a warm cup of tea or coffee, or lighting candles for a peaceful evening at home.
It’s about creating a calm, clutter-free environment and savoring the little things that make life feel richer.
This practice encourages people to prioritize well-being over material excess, making room for relaxation and comfort in everyday life.
Similarly, in Costa Rica, the Pura Vida lifestyle is a way of life that embodies simplicity, gratitude, and happiness.
Pura Vida translates to “pure life” and reflects the Costa Rican focus on living simply, appreciating nature, and embracing a slower pace.
The people of Costa Rica are known for their laid-back attitude and strong sense of community, finding joy in the natural beauty around them and the meaningful connections they share with others.
This focus on simplicity combined with an emphasis on family and nature contributes to their well-being and high levels of happiness.
One way to embrace simplicity is by keeping your physical space organized and decluttered. A cluttered space can lead to a cluttered mind and can make us feel anxious and overwhelmed.
By creating an environment that is clean, calm, and organized, we invite a sense of tranquility into our lives.
Start by getting rid of things that don’t serve a purpose or bring you joy, and focus on maintaining a space that feels peaceful and uplifting.
Living a simple life also means being mindful of how you spend your time and energy. Don’t fill your schedule with endless tasks and obligations, make room for activities that truly matter to you.
Learn to say no to things that drain your energy, and embrace the freedom that comes from living with intention.
When we live simply, we create more space, both physically and mentally, for the things that bring us genuine happiness.
It’s about stripping away the unnecessary distractions and focusing on the people, activities, and moments that add true value to our lives.
This simplicity allows us to experience life more fully, finding joy in the present rather than always seeking more.
Some blogs to help you learn more about simple living:
- What Is Simple Living and What Are the Benefits of a Simple Life?
- 5 Simple Ways To Simplify Your Life
4. Stay Connected to Nature
In our busy, technology-driven lives, it’s easy to forget how deeply connected we are to the natural world. But staying close to nature is one of the most powerful ways to live a happy and peaceful life.
We humans are an extension of this planet and our health and happiness depend on maintaining that connection.
Nature has a remarkable ability to calm our thoughts, lift our spirits, and give us a sense of peace and balance that’s difficult to experience elsewhere.
Take Finland, for example, consistently ranked as the happiest country in the world. One of the key reasons for this is the Finnish people’s deep connection to nature.
Finland is known for its vast forests, pristine lakes, and untouched landscapes, and Finnish people regularly spend time in these natural spaces.
Whether it’s hiking, camping, or simply walking through the woods, this connection to nature gives a sense of calm and contentment.
It allows people to unwind, reset, and feel a part of something bigger than themselves.
Being in nature helps to lower stress levels, improve focus, and even increase feelings of gratitude.
Simply walking barefoot on the grass or feeling the wind on your skin can make you feel grounded and connected to the natural world.
It reminds us that we are part of this living, breathing planet and that our well-being depends on staying in harmony with it.
Nature also offers us a moment to pause, breathe, and reflect. In a world that’s always on the go, taking time to sit by a river, watch the sunset, or hike through a forest can be incredibly restorative.
It’s a chance to clear our minds and feel the presence of the natural world around us.
To stay connected to nature, make it a habit to spend time outdoors regularly. Whether it’s going for a morning walk, gardening, or simply sitting in a park, prioritize time in nature.
You don’t have to be in a far-off wilderness to feel better – simply stepping outside and breathing in fresh air can lift your spirits.
When we connect with nature, we reconnect with ourselves. It reminds us that life is beautiful and that we’re lucky to be born here.
5. Create Work-Life Balance
We live in a world where the line between work and personal life is often blurred, and it becoming even worse with new kinds of jobs coming in every day, and the work-from-home culture.
We are constantly on the go and overwhelmed by our work and because of this, we struggle to make time for ourselves and our loved ones.
Most of us often get this feeling that life is passing by without time to enjoy it. That’s why it is very important to strike a balance between work and personal life.
But a balanced life doesn’t mean you have to work less, it’s about making sure you have enough time and energy to devote to other important aspects of your life, like family, hobbies, self-care, and relaxation.
It’s about finding a balance where your career and personal life support each other rather than compete for your attention.
This balance will give you satisfaction, knowing that you are not sacrificing your well-being for success or vice versa.
To create this balance, you’ll have to set boundaries. You’ll have to carve out time for yourself each day even if it means stepping away from work emails or saying no to extra tasks and projects.
This will require you to create a clear distinction between work hours and personal time, such as turning off work notifications after hours or scheduling non-work activities into your day.
Taking breaks and knowing when to rest is just as important because regularly overworking yourself will lead to burnout, which will not only affect your professional performance but also make you unhappy.
So create a work-life balance and give yourself the opportunity to enjoy all aspects of life.
6. Cultivate Gratitude
Gratitude is one of the simplest yet most powerful ways to bring happiness into your life.
When you focus on what you have instead of what you lack, it shifts your mindset and opens the door to a more positive and fulfilling life.
Cultivating gratitude means appreciating the present moment, being thankful for the small things, and recognizing the good that exists in your daily life.
It helps you stay grounded and brings a sense of contentment, regardless of external circumstances.
The practice of gratitude isn’t just about saying “thank you” when something good happens.
It’s about finding joy in the little moments like a cup of coffee in the morning, the warmth of the sun, or a conversation with a loved one.
These simple pleasures can often be overlooked in the rush of everyday life, but they are the foundation of happiness.
Gratitude allows you to slow down and appreciate what is happening right now, rather than constantly striving for more or wishing things were different.
Bhutan, a country known for its philosophy of Gross National Happiness, embodies this idea beautifully. In Bhutan, happiness is not measured by material wealth but by the overall well-being of its people.
Bhutanese culture places a strong emphasis on mindfulness and appreciating the present moment, which leads to a deep sense of gratitude and contentment.
By focusing on the present and being thankful for what they have, the Bhutanese people find peace and joy in their everyday lives.
One of the best ways to practice daily gratitude is by keeping a journal, and you can write 3 things you’re grateful for every day.
Some blogs to help you understand journaling in detail:
- What Is Journaling and What Are Its Benefits?
- What Are The Different Types of Journaling
- 5 Simple Steps to Start Journaling for Mental Health
- How and Why You Should Start a Gratitude Journal
- How to Journal for Personal Growth and Self-improvement
- What Is a Manifestation Journal and How to Journal for Manifestation
- How to Start a Health and Wellness Journal
- How Can Journaling Boost Your Productivity
- How to Journal for Overthinking
- What Is a Morning Journal and How to Journal in the Morning?
- Journaling vs. Keeping a Diary: What’s the Difference?
Another way is to express gratitude to the people around you, whether it’s a kind word, a note, or just taking a moment to acknowledge the support they provide.
Gratitude also helps in difficult times.
When life feels challenging, shifting your focus to the things you still have like your health, your relationships, and even the lessons learned from hardships can help you navigate tough situations with a more positive outlook.
Instead of dwelling on what’s going wrong, gratitude allows you to see the good, no matter how small.
Cultivating gratitude is about training your mind to appreciate life as it is, just like the Bhutanese philosophy of living in the present.
By being grateful for what you have and focusing on the positives, you can experience a deeper sense of happiness and well-being in your everyday life.
Here are some blogs on gratitude:
- What Is Gratitude And Why Is It So Important?
- 5 Simple Ways To Practice Gratitude Everyday
- Finding Silver Linings in Challenging Situations Through Gratitude
7. Practice Mindfulness
Mindfulness is the practice of being fully present and aware of the moment you’re in, without judgment. It’s about slowing down, paying attention to your thoughts and surroundings, and appreciating life as it happens.
In our fast-paced world, we’re often distracted by our phones, work, or the stresses of daily life, and we forget to just be.
Practicing mindfulness helps us reconnect with ourselves and find peace in the present moment which leads to a peaceful and happier life.
When you practice mindfulness, you begin to notice the little things that often go unnoticed, like the sound of birds chirping or the feel of the breeze on your skin.
These small, beautiful moments are what make life rich and meaningful.
Mindfulness also helps in managing stress and anxiety by bringing your focus back to what’s happening right now instead of worrying about the future or dwelling on the past.
One great way to incorporate mindfulness into your daily life is through meditation. Even a few minutes of meditation can help you clear your mind and center your thoughts.
Another way is through mindful breathing, which is focusing on your breath as it moves in and out of your body. These simple practices ground you in the present moment and allow you to reset your mental and emotional state.
We have designed our own Mindful Living Digital Planner which has helped us maintain a consistent mindfulness practice.
This digital tool is a fully hyperlinked daily journal, planner, and health tracker and we’ve designed it to help you incorporate gratitude, mindfulness, affirmations, and self-care into your routine, all while keeping your life organized and focused.
We can honestly say that it has positively impacted our lives by helping us stay on track and create balance in our day-to-day activities.
We discussed in the previous tip that journaling is one of the best ways to practice gratitude, and this planner is perfect for that as well. If you’re looking to buy one for yourself, we invite you to check out ours.
Practicing mindfulness doesn’t require any special tools or extensive knowledge. It’s something you can do anywhere, anytime. The key is to be intentional about your awareness.
Some blogs on mindfulness:
- What Is Mindfulness And Why Mindfulness Is A Superpower
- What Is Mindful Living And How To Live Mindfully
- What Is Mindfulness Meditation And How To Do It
- How To Practice Mindfulness In Your Daily Life
- 7 Healthy Habits to Live a Mindful Life
- 5 Indispensable Mindful Living Tools
Wrapping Up – What Makes a Truly Happy Life?
A truly happy life is all about finding balance – a balance between Eudaimonic and Hedonic happiness, between work and personal life, and between the things that deeply matter to you and the daily responsibilities you have to fulfill.
Happiness isn’t just about one single factor or one moment, it’s about creating harmony in all areas of life. It’s about pursuing your purpose in life while also allowing yourself to enjoy the present moment.
In this blog, we explored seven practical tips inspired by some of the happiest places, regions, and people in the world.
From the sense of purpose found in the Blue Zones to the cozy Danish idea of hygge, and the deep connection with nature in Finland, these tips provide key insights into living a happy and meaningful life.
By incorporating these practices – finding purpose, nurturing relationships, living simply, connecting with nature, creating balance, cultivating gratitude, and practicing mindfulness, you can set yourself on a path toward long-term happiness.
But remember, happiness doesn’t happen by chance. You are responsible for your own happiness, and that means taking action.
It’s about making intentional choices that prioritize your well-being, your relationships, and your sense of fulfillment. Start small, but be consistent, and over time you’ll see the impact of these habits in your life.
True happiness is something you can cultivate each day. So, take the first step today and commit to living a balanced, purposeful, and joyful life. Your happiness is in your hands. Namaste!
FAQs – What Makes a Truly Happy Life?
How Do You Live a Happy Life?
Living a happy life means finding balance. As we’ve discussed, it’s about blending purpose with enjoyment, nurturing meaningful relationships, and taking time to appreciate life’s simple pleasures.
You can achieve this by following the seven practical tips we shared, like staying connected with nature, cultivating gratitude, and finding purpose.
A happy life is a result of conscious choices that prioritize both your well-being and personal fulfillment.
A Good Life Is a Happy Life Meaning
A good life is one where you feel both content and fulfilled. It’s not just about short-term pleasures but also about living with purpose and meaning.
A truly happy life is a balanced one, where you enjoy life’s little moments while also pursuing your deeper goals. As we explained, it’s about combining Eudaimonic and Hedonic happiness.
What Is Happiness Best Answer
Happiness is a state of contentment and fulfillment, where you feel at peace with yourself and your life.
It’s about more than just momentary joy; it’s the result of living in alignment with your values, finding purpose, and appreciating life’s small joys.
True happiness is a balance between enjoying the present and having a sense of purpose for the future.
What Makes a Happy Life
A happy life comes from balance—between work and life, purpose and pleasure, and meaningful connections with others. It’s about finding joy in both the big picture and the everyday moments.
As we explored in the blog, happiness is nurtured by purpose, community, simplicity, gratitude, and mindfulness.
What Does Living a Meaningful Life Mean to You?
Living a meaningful life means having a sense of purpose and direction. It’s about knowing that what you do matters, both to yourself and to others.
As we discussed, a truly happy life combines both Eudaimonic and Hedonic happiness—finding fulfillment in personal growth and joy in life’s simple pleasures.
Leave a Reply