We are all inexplicably connected to one another by virtue of our deeply social nature as humans. But recently, studies have shown exactly how those connections can actually affect our well-being. This week I saw a show called “This Emotional Life” on Oregon Public Broadcasting (OPB). The highlight of this particular episode was the fact that happiness is contagious.
You’re probably wondering how they know that, right? Well, researchers created a hugely complex map of the interactions between specific people and those they’re connected with. It was a jumble of names and arrows of different colors indicating the types of relationships. Some people were related, others were friends or co-workers.
Out of all the data they collected, the most statistically significant finding was that happiness spreads through the map faster than the common cold. So it looks like when you’re happy, your happiness spreads to those you come into contact with, who then share it with other people you may not have even met. Your happiness can have a positive effect on people up to four degrees of separation from you!
With that in mind, consider the impact your happiness has on your family, and the impact theirs has on you. This week, put some special focus on doing the things that bring you joy so that you can not only experience happiness but you can also spread it to the people you love. And begin to notice how your child’s laughter can spread through your household like wildfire. What can you do this week to foster joy and laughter in your home? Continue reading “Happiness is contagious”
