Happiness

Twenty four years ago I heard Richard Layard, now Lord Layard, speak on happiness at course organised by the cabinet office. It had an impact then and I have watched with keen interest in recent years as he has developed his papers on happiness: the fundamental purpose of life. Happiness is as much about giving as it is about living, altruism works both ways.

This week the media have latched onto it with a slightly cynical air following the launch of Action for Happiness, but more commonly referred to as give someone a hug. There was a report on Radio 4 and several infantile articles in the press about the search for happiness.  Given the unchallenged assumption that the pursuit of wealth is a worthwhile objective and therefore the basis for ranking countries, regions and individuals I find this obsession with wealth indicative of a society that lacks a moral compass

So what are the things that make you happy or content, I would suggest the following in no particular order.  They are from the top of the head and reflect my profile of happiness.

• Feeling well
• A good burst of exercise and the release of endorphins
• Being in a place of outstanding beauty usually the mountains
• Seeing someone you love achieve something - whether your child taking its first steps, or getting a qualification or job that will enhance their life
• Completing an innovative project that will make a difference to people or place
• Knowing you have made someone happy or helping them to recover and thrive 
• Having no debt
• Being in the company of others who have vitality and inspire you
• A good book or radio programme or film or sporting event
• Memories particularly when relived with friends
• Sticking to principles rather than being greedy or selfish
• Achieving targets or events that stretch you
• A good meal in good company

Even thinking about the concept of happiness and well being challenges the way in which we are duped into believing that material wealth is important.  It is the individual and local things that matter most not the products, services and charges that corporate organisations and government try to market to us.They are no more than the flotsam of possession or greed that deviate us from the pursuit of happiness.