Are we happier when we spend more time with others?

Post by Reelin » Wed, Jul 24, 2019, 6:39 AM UTC

randomsearch wrote: post #38

kr4 wrote: post #34

Earlier quoted context omitted.

I think the key to attain ever-lasting happiness is to commit ourselves to doing kind or selfless deeds as a habit [0]. Scientifically it's been observed that when we make someone happy the same region lights up in our brain [1] when we do something to make ourselves happy. Coupled with meditation that makes you more mindful so you can be more kind (kindfullness), you can attain a state of mind in which you can remai…

Sharing this because I said it the other day and it seemed to resonate. Happiness is overvalued. Meaning or purpose is undervalued. Happiness is based on a transition: something new, a change of circumstances, and is by its nature temporary. Meaning and purpose are long term. Seek meaning, not happiness.

Post by yuhe00 » Wed, Jul 24, 2019, 6:48 AM UTC

cjpb wrote: post #13

jerryuen wrote: post #4

I found this study to be a good reference but I question how useful some of the data are for 20-30 years old people nowadays because: 1. The study started in 1938, which is a very different time comparing to today. Young people has way more options to enjoy life alone such as traveling, playing video games, watching youtube by themselves just to name a few. 2. The participants are mostly 90 years old now and it is un…

You raise some good points. I also believe personality types play a large part, for example I'm an introvert, and while spending time with others makes me happy - that can easily be negated if I spend too much time with others or don't have a chance to come up for air (e.g. some alone time). Not to mention the personality types of others as well. I have introverted friends whom I can quite happily spend weeks at a ti…

Post by onion2k » Wed, Jul 24, 2019, 6:57 AM UTC

chewz wrote: post #32

onion2k wrote: post #31

Earlier quoted context omitted.

I can understand someone thinking video games and YouTube are just killing time (although I don't agree), but traveling ? That's pretty much universally accepted as one of the best things you can do to improve yourself.

This is a cliche about traveling. Most young people that I have seen traveling in Thailand or Bali do not seem like improving themselves. Only few are genuinely interested in the world around them. Of course we will need some data to support my point :-)

Post by sAbakumoff » Wed, Jul 24, 2019, 7:17 AM UTC

axaxs wrote: post #22

Anecdotally... I am, but I seem doomed. I'm not really antisocial. In fact, I can become overtalkative at times when in a social setting. But, given the option, I never seem to want to 'get out' and socialize. Though, when I force myself to, I am in such a better mood for a few days. Then, back to normal, and avoiding social gatherings again until the next time.

Post by [deleted] » Wed, Jul 24, 2019, 7:33 AM UTC

sAbakumoff wrote: post #47

axaxs wrote: post #22

Anecdotally... I am, but I seem doomed. I'm not really antisocial. In fact, I can become overtalkative at times when in a social setting. But, given the option, I never seem to want to 'get out' and socialize. Though, when I force myself to, I am in such a better mood for a few days. Then, back to normal, and avoiding social gatherings again until the next time.

nah..social connections frequency is not the only factor for long living. if a person goes out every day and meets friends and stuff but drinks a bunch of alcohol and smokes and does not care about sleeping properly then he/she is doomed more than a loner who is trying to keep healthy lifestyle.