If you're looking for happiness, and some people aren't these days, creating an experience based on your generation may be the most successful. A new study finds that there are significant differences between generations in how they spend their time and money seeking (and finding!) happiness and great experiences.
Although it may seem fluffy, happiness is a worthy and substantive goal. Today, we are more polarized than ever, and people are reporting record levels of stress and mental health issues. But if you're happy, you tend to be healthier, live longer, and experience less depression, anxiety, and other mental or emotional problems. They also tend to perform better and have more success at work.
And happiness is also contagious. When you are happy with yourself, you tend to have a positive impact on others in your community and network.
Furthermore, happiness spans work and life. You probably already know that being happy at work tends to have a positive impact on your personal life, but the opposite is also true. When you are happier outside of work, you recognize that you are happier at work.
Here's how to be happy or happier based on your generation.
Be happy through play like Gen Z
When asked how they would like to spend their extra time and money, Gen Zers are 69% more likely than other generations to say they want to play games. According to RYA research, they prefer video games, card games and even board games.
Playing together is a sure path to happiness. In fact, a study from Brigham Young University found that engaging in playful activities at work increases productivity by 20%.
Play is powerful because it unites us with others, virtually or in person, and connects us to a common goal. Play builds bonds by creating shared experiences while providing sufficient structure and rules for meaningful interaction.
Feeling connected to your peers is a surefire path to happiness, and having fun at work and in your personal life is a great strategy to get there.
Be happy through sports like a Millennial
Interestingly, RYA data shows that Millennials are 33% more likely than other generations to prefer playing sport in their free time outside of work. For example, you might want to play soccer, tennis, or pickleball.
There's enough evidence to show that exercise is good for you and your well-being. In fact, according to research from the University of Michigan, it increases feelings of happiness and joy and reduces anxiety and depression.
And exercise is helpful for all ages. West Virginia University demonstrated a link between exercise and well-being in middle school students, and the University of Iowa found that older adults benefit from increased cognitive function and memory when they exercise.
Sports also offer the benefit of access to nature, which can also lead to greater health and well-being. Although you can play sports indoors, there is a good chance that you will also play sports outdoors. A comprehensive study of 301 individual studies across 62 countries scientific progress It turns out that spending time in nature improves not only creativity, personality, and abilities, but also cognition, thinking, cohesion, and communication skills.
Exercise and nature greatly contribute to well-being, so embrace sports.
Enjoy entertainment and be happy like Gen X
According to RYA, Gen
This is also a smart way to build friendships, connections and create conditions for happiness. In fact, having a few close friends has a greater impact on your health (heart disease, blood pressure, cancer, dementia, and mental health) than your diet, exercise, and drinking habits, and on par with smoking. Research at Brigham Young University.
And hosting gatherings for colleagues at work can have additional benefits, as feeling more connected to your co-workers reduces stress, burnout, loneliness, and anxiety, according to data from BetterUp.
Breaking bread together also has a remarkable effect on relationships. An academic study by evolutionary psychologist Dr. Robin Dunbar found that when people eat together, it increases their sense of community, trust, satisfaction, happiness, and the perception that life is worth living.
Take a page from the Gen X playbook and create happiness by entertaining, entertaining, and spending time with friends while enjoying delicious food.
Be happy through volunteering like the baby boomers
RYA data shows that volunteering is also a great way to be happy, with baby boomers 31% more likely to spend time here than other generations.
Volunteering can lead to a sense of well-being because it allows you to focus on helping others. Research has shown that this increases feelings of pleasure and satisfaction.
Additionally, research shows that volunteering increases 45% of people's sense of purpose, 36% feel happier, 26% improve their mental health, 20% increase confidence and self-esteem, and 11% feel less stressed. Reduced. Written by Biolife.
So, look for opportunities to volunteer, help your community, and contribute your talents to others for greater well-being.
do what you like
Doing what you love, both inside and outside of work, will lead to happiness. So, regardless of your generation, embrace activities that energize you. This will bring you greater happiness not only for yourself but also for others.