Overview of our Theory on Happiness

Many times, throughout our lives, we have asked ourselves the question of what the true

meaning of happiness is. While many people associate happiness with wealth, success, or

material possessions, research suggests that the deepest and most lasting satisfaction comes from

simpler factors that have no cost in life. As researchers, we took the time to investigate what it is

that produces the feeling of happiness and found three important factors that we believe are

deeply connected to happiness. These are learning, optimism, and social connection. By doing an

exhaustive search on how it is possible that these components can produce a feeling of

happiness, we came to the conclusion that it does indeed make us personally feel calm and

fulfilled. By examining these three key elements, we can better understand how they contribute

to long-term happiness and overall well-being.

Though many do not immediately think of learning as a method to happiness, we believe

that this is one of the most essential drivers to achieving happiness. In a study done by Dr.

Hogberg in Umeda University (2019), 15,000 people were studied in 25 different countries every

two years and it was found that the countries that supported their citizens reaching greater

educational attainment were the happiest ones. It is no surprise why; in a very direct sense,

learning at a university translates to a more successful future. However, that is not the only

reason. Learning about how the world works builds purpose in life. It simultaneously humbles

and uplifts. It can also foster curiosity, which leads to greater engagement with the world and a

deeper appreciation for life's intricacies. When people challenge themselves intellectually, they

experience a sense of achievement that contributes to their overall happiness. The pursuit of

knowledge does not simply mean attending university lectures, but it means actively developing

skills, reading books, and gaining wisdom from life experiences. An article written by Heidi

Godman (2024) discusses how having a hobby was linked to better health, more happiness, and

more life satisfaction. This is because hobbies allow one to express themselves, to be creative,

and relax. Building a hobby also builds confidence and trust within oneself; seeing growth and

how continual practice improves skills allows you to develop a sense of accomplishment and

self-assurance, reinforcing your belief in your abilities and potential. Learning as a way to

happiness is also supported in world views, such as Islam. In the article The Idea of Happiness in

the Qu’ran by Dr. Mohamed (2024), it states that financial stability is only a desire because then

one “can give all their attention to the pursuit of knowledge.” In this case, the pursuit of

knowledge is in a religious context but it is nonetheless learning and important for the well-being

of practitioners of Islam.

Learning by itself is not enough to achieve happiness. In fact, it might make some people

feel hopeless. History gives information on some of humanity’s worst crimes and there are

always terrible events happening in the news. That is why another incredibly important part of

our happiness theory is optimism and positivity. This does not mean to only ever feel happy and

always look at the positive side. As the article Variety is the Spice of Emotional Life (2011)

states, having a diverse set of emotions is what is healthiest. The time will come where anger,

sadness, and hopelessness are present. In trying to repress those feelings for only positive ones,

we are actually not being positive ourselves. By acknowledging and accepting the full range of our emotions, we can approach life with a sense of optimism and positivity that isn't about

ignoring the negative feelings, but about learning and growing from them. Optimism is a tool to

not let negative experiences define life. It teaches us that even with the bad, there can still be

happiness and life can be good. Optimism and positivity are also supported by Islam. According

to Living the Good Life: An Islamic Perspective on Positive Psychology, it is encouraged in Islam

to face challenges with resilience and a positive outlook. There is an example of a study on

Palestinian Muslim women with breast cancer being able to cope well because of their trust in

God. This perspective aligns with the optimism we have discussed, where optimism towards

aspects of life that are not generally positive can contribute to overall happiness.

Finally, another factor that we consider very important is social connection. It is

scientifically proven that social interactions are essential for people's mental health. This is

because human beings are considered social beings. No matter how introverted a person is, they

will always need close interaction that produces trust and happiness. There are studies that have

revealed that social and physical interactions have an effect on the body's oxytocin levels.

Oxytocin is a hormone produced in the brain that has multiple functions. It is deeply related to

social behavior, such as love, memory, anger, aggression, empathy, generosity, and trust. Having

pleasant interactions causes positive effects on the production of oxytocin, which is why it is also

known as the "love hormone" or the "cuddle hormone." And of course, we are aware that not all

interactions that humans have with each other are positive, there are also difficult moments that

clearly produce negative effects and emotions in people. So, the important thing is to play it

smart and choose what kind of relationship you have with people. For example, in the Arab

world, most people choose to make their neighbors part of their family. This is explained by

Muhammad Muhsin Ayubi in Neighbor's Rights from the Perspective of Islam. In American

culture, it is not normal to have relationships with neighbors. In fact, there are cases where

neighbors can go through complicated situations that make them hate each other. Having a

neighbor as an enemy is not very smart, so Arabs choose to have a healthier relationship with

their neighbors that they know will bring happiness and well-being to their lives.

In conclusion, the pursuit of happiness is deeply intertwined with learning, optimism, and

social connection. Learning fosters a sense of purpose, personal growth, and hope for a better

future, which enables people to have a motivation to live and interact with the world in

meaningful ways that cause positive emotions. However, knowledge alone is not enough;

cultivating optimism helps people face life's challenges with resilience and not give up at the

slightest obstacle. This helps difficulties not completely erase moments of joy and makes

negative feelings temporary. Lastly, social connections are vital to emotional well-being, as they

provide support, confidence, and stability in people's lives. By embracing these three elements

(continuous learning, a balanced emotional perspective, and meaningful relationships), we can

create a more emotionally stable and happy life.