The “secret” of long life, health and happiness
As a financial analyst I am somewhat (that is, very) biased towards empiricism. I like empirical studies that prove or disprove hypotheses. Each one gives me a little bit of comfort as it removes an element of uncertainty from my universe.
The Harvard Study of Adult Development is thought to be the longest study of adult life that’s ever been done. It started in 1938 and has tracked the lives of 724 men. The study has had four directors and continues to this day, now including partners and children. The study cohort includes Harvard graduates and men from the wrong side of the tracks.
As it turns out wealth, fame and careers are things that men think are important – but which are poor predictors of longevity, health and happiness.
So what is the secret? In the words of Robert Waldinger, the current Director:
The clearest message that we get from this 75-year study is this: Good relationships keep us happier and healthier. Period.
Waldinger identifies three big lessons:
- Social connections are really good for us – and loneliness kills.
- It’s the quality of close relationships that matters – not just the number of friends or whether you’re in a committed relationship (and a corollary, conflict is unhealthy).
- Good relationships don’t just protect our bodies, they protect our brains.
If health and happiness are considered desirable, it makes no sense to sacrifice relationships for careers, fame or money. The observation of many that apparently do make such sacrifices begs the questions: Why do people sacrifice relationships and happiness for things that will not make them happy? Is it through ignorance, a sense of duty or some other factors?
You can see Robert Waldinger present the study findings in a TED talk here.