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Writer's picturePooja Sharma

Timeless Wisdom: 8 Lessons from Harvard's 84-Year-Old Study for a Happier Life

Updated: Apr 5, 2023

Being a lifelong learner, the search of happiness and well-being has always captivated me. Adult Development, an 84-year-old Harvard research, offers us with a rare opportunity to learn from the experiences of others and discover the secrets to a better life. In this article, I will discuss seven significant lessons obtained from this extraordinary study.


1. Cultivate Rich Connections


Strong, healthy relationships are the greatest major contributor to happiness and well-being, according to the study. Cultivate your relationships with family, friends, and loved ones by spending quality time with them, demonstrating gratitude, and providing assistance. Time spent with loved ones has a strong positive effect on happiness.


2, A pleasant childhood holds great value


A happy childhood is correlated with having more friends, a better outlook on life, and healthy habits. Negative recollections from infancy are linked to more challenges in interpersonal interactions, self-awareness, and coping with negative emotions.


3. Give Mental Health Priority


Mental wellness is essential for total health. Engage in self-care by engaging in activities that encourage relaxation and awareness, such as meditation, yoga, and time spent in nature.




4. Maintain Physical Activity


Physical activity is excellent not just for the body but also for the mind. Frequent exercise can aid in stress reduction, mood enhancement, and cognitive enhancement. Most days of the week, aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise.


5. Establish Achievable Objectives


Having a feeling of purpose and establishing attainable objectives can increase fulfilment and happiness. Break down your goals into smaller, more doable activities, and recognize your progress along the way.


6. Develop Emotional Resilience


There are many ups and downs in life. Building emotional resilience enables you to overcome obstacles and have a positive viewpoint. Gratitude should be practiced, support from loved ones should be sought, and lessons should be drawn from one's experiences.


7. Accept Change and Adapt


Change is a necessary component of existence. Accepting change and adjusting to new circumstances can result in personal development and fulfilment. Be receptive to new experiences and perceive obstacles as learning opportunities.


8. Return Favors to Others


Contributing to your community and assisting others can foster a sense of connection and purpose. Give your time, share your skills, or make a concerted effort to be considerate and empathetic.


You can unleash the potential for increased happiness and well-being by adopting these lessons into your daily routine. Remember that the secret to a fulfilling life is fostering relationships, prioritizing mental and physical health, creating objectives, cultivating resilience, welcoming change, and giving back to others. Start adopting these lessons now and go on the path to a better, more fulfilling life.

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