Is there a happiness equation? Here’s how we’re trying to find out
Unraveling the mystery of happiness, we delve into the intriguing possibility of a mathematical formula for joy. Can we quantify contentment? Join us as we explore the ongoing research and theories that seek to answer this fascinating question.
What if your happy is different from my happy?
Happiness is really complicated. It can change quickly and it’s different for everyone in ways that scientists don’t understand.
- In our ongoing research, we are trying to capture this subjectivity and get a more complete view of what happiness is
- Smartphones provide an opportunity to gather detailed information about the complexities of happiness
Expectations
Our research shows how high expectations can be a problem
- Lowering expectations at the last moment increases the probability of a positive surprise
- When things go better than expected, your brain can use that information to revise your expectations upward so you make even better choices in the future
- Realistic expectations are generally best
Tool versus goal
Most events don’t affect happiness for long
- The ephemeral nature of happiness means we might be better off thinking about happiness in a different way
- Happiness is a tool, not a goal in itself
- By asking about happiness as you play these games, we can figure out the factors that matter for everyone
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