What Makes Us Happy?

Hint: Academics alone don't predict success

Jun 02, 2009
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Submitted by: Paula Schwed
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 There's a fascinating article in The Atlantic magazine's June issue called What Makes Us Happy about a research study tracking several hundred men who went to Harvard in the 1930s. They all benefited from an excellent education - but it was not simply academics that determined success and happiness for these privileged men. The study clearly shows that social and emotional factors made the difference. What really matters in life? The principal researcher's answer: "Your relationships to other people." Research like this shows why it's vital to instill these essential life lessons at an early age.

Visit WINGS to learn more about teaching life lessons

 

Fascinating!

On June 4th, 2009 Liz Mester says:
I love this article for so many reasons: it's proof that social and emotional intelligence plays a vital role in happines / success, proof that research and evaluations produce stunning observations, and proof that how you handle life is just as important as what you've been dealt. This article illustrates the important work WINGS is doing - reaching kids when they're young, teaching a set of coping skills, and laying the foundation for future success and happiness.

Wow. What an in-depth

On June 4th, 2009 Bridget Laird says:

Wow. What an in-depth study!  I am so glad we are taking the time to teach the kids social skills now so they can have thriving relationships throughout their lives and....based on this study, be happier!

Bridget Laird