UAE RESIDENTS SAY WHAT HAPPINESS MEANS TO THEM
SOME KEYS TO HAPPINESS IS SLEEP, REST, MEDITATION AND HEALTHY RELATIONSHIPS
Have you noticed that you can actually tell if someone is smiling behind those masks that we all wear in public? It turns out happiness is just a smile away — you cannot mask it.
Studies show some of the keys to happiness: sleep/rest, daily meditation, gratitude/ gratefulness, healthy relationships and helping others. One such study, done by a Harvard team, has been running for more than 80 years. The study kicked off in 1938, during the Great Depression, a really bad time. During tough moments, the study says, it is important to have an “attitude of gratitude”.
What’s the best attitude?
Positive psychology research shows that gratitude is strongly and consistently correlated with greater happiness. Gratitude — the quality of being thankful, or a readiness to show appreciation for and to return kindness — is an inexpensive way to feel genuinely happy.
Why is gratitude the best attitude? Because, instead of the being gripped by negativity (and there are many around us), gratitude helps us feel more positive emotions, relish good experiences, improve health, deal with adversity and build strong relationships, according to the study.
So what makes UAE residents happy? We, at Gulf News asked them. Take a look at what they said.
Vinita Hirani, Indian, 33, marketing and PR manager, at Danube Group
“Finding an equilibrium in life between work and family gives me a thrill that words cannot explain and makes me the happiest. I work and strive every day to make my purpose as an individual valuable to every single person I meet or interact with. So be it my work or family, it is my goal to not only be happy myself but pass on this infectious emotion to everyone around me.”
Anna Khan, Pakistani, fashion stylist, make-up artist and influencer
“What makes me happy? Honestly, the Year 2020 has changed the whole definition of “happiness” for me. It’s purely self-created. I try to seek happiness inside of me. I now allow myself to be happy with little moments on the daily basis — like watering plants, putting red lipstick on, wearing my “power suit” even when I have no plans to step out. Celebrating small moments and being grateful brings true joy. Try it for yourself!”
Fiza Shah, Indian, 32, a freelance make-up artist
“Having a peaceful life, one with no complications and stress brings me the greatest satisfaction. I do not look at work as something that gives me most happiness. I love what I do. But above all, just having a peaceful life is key in my life.”
Dima Habbouchi, Lebanese, 42, an executive assistant
“My children Jana (15) Adam (13) and Hania (11) bring her immense joy. Helping (my children) in their daily lives, shaping their character, setting goals, realising their dreams — these are things that make me happy.”
Nancy Yu, Filipina, 43, a cabin crew
“My baby boy brings me great joy. Before, it was my job or shopping for clothes that made me happy. But today, when I sleep at night and see my little boy next to me, it makes me happy, content. My husband and my children are my source of happiness. I also love my job. In times like these, having a job is great. So I am grateful and so happy to have it.”
If something can motivate the person to feel happy and actually accomplish it, then that is the real thing.”
Dr Arun Kumar K | Specialist Psychiatrist — Aster Clinic