Sangha of Auspicious Companions

Why Some Countries Are Happier Than Their Wealth Suggests

The World Happiness Report that ranks countries by “happiness” is published each year, and often sparks “national pride, disappointment, debate, or even competition.” Some question the report’s data collection and economic focus. Another study, wealth-adjusted life satisfaction (WALS) finds different results that suggest too much emphasis on a country’s wealth. “Certain low-income countries are remarkably efficient at generating happiness, while certain wealthy countries underperform relative to their resources.” The study identified other important drivers such as “job quality, a sense of personal freedom, strong social connections, and positive emotional experiences” as ways to transform prosperity into well-being. “Ultimately, building societies that prioritize the wise use of resources for human well-being may be the clearest path toward a more hopeful and humane future.”

Be The Change

Pause to appreciate the different aspects of life with which you feel happy and experience a sense of well-being.