Can happiness be measured? What do the experts say?

Why? Because, by focusing on happiness as a final goal, we create expectations that often turn out to be unattainable.

Happiness is not a trophy we can win; rather, it is a way of life that requires habits and attitudes that we cultivate day by day.

As psychologist Sebastián Ibarzábal rightly points out, happiness is often associated with external factors such as freedom of expression and a long life. But what happens when those factors are not present?

Focusing on happiness as an absolute state can lead us to frustration.

So, instead of thinking about being happy, why not think about being more specific? What would you really like to achieve? Perhaps you want a family, a job that you are passionate about, or simply to enjoy your day-to-day life more. Doesn't that sound more appealing?

The true secret of happiness: beyond yoga

Happiness and its stages

Manuel González Oscoy reminds us that happiness has different stages. Sometimes, we compare ourselves to others, which can make us feel like we are in an endless race.

As we move through life, our expectations change, and what once made us happy may fall behind. Does that sound familiar? The important thing is to understand that there is no single way to be happy.

Moreover, academic Hugo Sánchez emphasizes that experiencing a range of emotions, from sadness to joy, is normal and healthy. Life is not an eternal carnival, and that’s okay.

Accepting our emotions instead of fighting against them allows us to adapt better to our surroundings. So, do we really need to be happy all the time? The answer is a resounding no.

The science behind happiness

The measurement of happiness is quite a topic. There are global reports that rank countries based on their happiness, and while they can be useful, they also create expectations that, if not met, can disappoint people.

The 2024 report, for example, shows that Finland remains the happiest country. But what does that mean for us? Happiness cannot be standardized. Therefore, each of us must find our own path.

Arthur C. Brooks and Oprah Winfrey point out that happiness is not a final destination, but a daily construction.

It is more like a puzzle that we piece together with small bits of everyday satisfaction. And while some studies suggest that being sociable and maintaining a positive attitude are key, others indicate that practices like meditation do not always yield the expected results.

Daily habits that will make your life happier

Breaking Myths about Happiness

The constant desire to be happy can lead us to rumination, a process where we overthink what we lack. Has this happened to you? The pressure to be happy can be overwhelming and, in many cases, counterproductive.

Boris Marañón Pimentel suggests that happiness should not be measured only in material terms, but that it also includes subjective and cultural aspects.

Finally, the happiness report in Argentina 2024 reveals that only 1 in 3 Argentinians feels satisfied with their life. This makes us reflect on the importance of questioning our expectations and adopting a more realistic perspective on what it means to be happy.

So, instead of chasing happiness as if it were a goal, how about we start enjoying the process? Happiness, after all, may be closer than we think.