Are You a Happy Camper?

I was fumbling around on the computer the other evening and I came across TED Talks on YouTube. I think TED might stand for Technology, Entertainment and Design. It is also a good English word that means to spread or scatter, like a farmer turning over the hay to dry. TED is a non-profit foundation with the slogan "Ideas Worth Spreading". This particular episode was presented by Dr. Robert Waldinger, a Harvard psychologist. His topic was on 'the one thing everyone needs to be happier.'

Probably every culture has its own idea as to what constitutes a happy life. I know there is an emotional component when we experience a good time or a streak of 'luck'. As a bonus, we also are awarded a marvelous shot of dopamine (a neurotransmitter)!

It is March Break Week in Ontario and, in spite of the low Canadian dollar, thousands of my fellow Canadians are heading to the warm and sunny south. I am sure those who have been looking forward to their vacation were feeling 'very happy' as they boarded their plane at Toronto Pearson International Airport on the weekend.

But in life, we need more than an occasional chemical release in the brain to make us a happy person. Our culture suggests ideas that supposedly lead to long-term happiness. They include financial security, a well-balanced life, good health, chutzpah, a great golf score, nice feelings, a sense of humour,  and even dying and going to heaven!

On the other side of the coin, a large group of people were polled and asked to identify their greatest fear in life. Would you believe the majority answered public speaking! And their second greatest fear - of dying! As someone wrote recently the mourners at a funeral would rather be in the coffin than delivering the eulogy!

The Harvard Study on happiness was started over seventy-five years ago and Dr. Waldinger is the  fourth person to manage it. The study originated with students, including President John F. Kennedy, but later added families and wives. A similar study followed young men from inner-city Boston tenements. It began around1940. More recently the study added genetic testing to the research.

Now comes the big question? What do these longitudinal studies show? " Those satisfied in their relationships were happier and healthier. It was that simple". The Washington Post.

However, it is important to emphasize that it is the quality of the relationship that provides the psychological and social well-being. Since each one of us is different and unique, relationships are not always easy. They require constant care and attention. I am sure there are dozens of books and articles outlining the 'do's and do not's' for building such relationships.

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But this octogenarian is not a psychiatrist and has no advice to give to others on this matter. I leave that to the experts. I simply know from experience that my efforts to be open with those I love and care for has given me the greatest pleasure and security any man could possibly desire. I was so happy to learn that the Harvard study confirms my experience. Thanks TED for a great and encouraging presentation. In the end, love really does matters.

And that's Dick View of the World this Week

Did you know? 

I don't like debts any more than anyone else. But the  Canadian debt still remains among the lowest (31%) for the Group of Seven nations. We will soon learn if that is to change!