Self-help books may say happiness comes from within, but let’s get real. Contentment also hinges on external factors like money, how many friends you have, and whether you have kids. More isn’t necessarily merrier. So how do you find the sweet spots? Science, of course.
Salary per year
$75,000
Money can buy happiness—to a point, says Daniel Kahneman and Angus Deaton’s analysis of the Gallup-Healthways Well-Being Index. Meeting basic needs feels good; racing to get rich does not.
Commute Time
20 minutes
Actually, the numbers on how long a commute you can take aren’t bad. According to Swiss researchers Alois Stutzer and Bruno Frey, up to 20 minutes is a breeze, and after 30 minutes misery just plateaus.
Work per week
33 hours
Not enough work? Sad. Too much? Sad. But in an analysis of European and US job stats, Simon Luechinger of the University of Lucerne found that 33 hours is just right. Assuming you have a job.
Kids
1
A bunch of surveys show that one child will make you happier than none. But don’t be fooled! It’s not like ice cream. More ain’t better. And your happiness will increase when they leave home.
Input | Exercise
Input | Information
Input | Sleep
Input | Nutrition
Output | Performance
Output | Wellness
Output | Longevity
