Author: Staff Reporter

A happy, deeply fulfilling relationship isn’t just built on shared playlists, similar movie preferences, or agreement on pizza toppings. While common interests may help spark a connection, the core of a lasting, joyful partnership lies in much deeper qualities—those rooted in emotional intelligence and psychological behaviors that foster true intimacy and growth. Here are seven specific behaviors, backed by psychology, that signal you’ve found a partner capable of bringing enduring happiness.

First, she actively supports your personal growth. When a woman encourages you to take chances, chase your dreams, and better yourself—whether by returning to school, exploring a new hobby, or pursuing a career move—she’s showing more than just surface-level support. She believes in your capabilities and nudges you forward without judgment or hesitation. This attitude reflects Carl Rogers’s principle of unconditional positive regard. Rogers emphasized that individuals thrive when they are valued and accepted as they are. A partner who offers this kind of emotional environment allows you to flourish, offering a safe space where you’re not afraid to fail or succeed. This unconditional support becomes a key driver of self-growth and happiness.

Second, she communicates openly, even about uncomfortable or difficult subjects. If you’ve ever felt silenced or uneasy in a previous relationship, you know how essential open dialogue can be. A woman who doesn’t shy away from discussing conflicts or sharing her concerns does more than maintain peace—she strengthens the relationship. She speaks with empathy and honesty, making sure both partners are understood. This type of communication is a pillar of stability, according to psychologist John Gottman. Known for his research into marital success, Gottman found that couples who handle conflict with calm, clear communication are more likely to last. “Instead of bottling things up or sweeping issues under the rug,” a woman who promotes open conversation ensures problems are resolved early, protecting the relationship from deeper damage.

Third, she provides emotional support without rushing to judge. Relationships naturally come with emotional highs and lows. A woman who remains by your side through both extremes—whether you’re celebrating a win or managing stress—adds stability. She listens patiently, giving you space to express feelings without jumping to criticism. This behavior aligns with the concept of secure attachment, introduced by John Bowlby and expanded by Mary Ainsworth. In this model, emotional safety is key. Both partners feel they can be themselves without fear of rejection. A woman who creates this security becomes the anchor in a storm, helping you feel safe enough to be vulnerable.

Fourth, she fosters and reciprocates trust. One of the most telling signs of a meaningful relationship is mutual trust. She respects your boundaries, believes in your integrity, and avoids suspicion and doubt. In turn, she is transparent about her own life, building a dynamic free of secrecy. This behavior reflects the psychological principle of reciprocal self-disclosure. Based on Social Penetration Theory by Irwin Altman and Dalmas Taylor, this idea explains how trust deepens through gradually revealing one’s inner thoughts and emotions. When she shares her fears, goals, or uncertainties, you’re more likely to do the same, creating a strong bond built on vulnerability and respect.

Fifth, she demonstrates empathy and compassion. Empathy isn’t simply acknowledging another’s feelings—it’s fully understanding them. A woman who feels joy when you succeed and offers comfort when you’re down strengthens your emotional connection. She doesn’t dismiss your feelings; she tries to feel them with you. This behavior aligns with “compassionate love,” a concept emphasized in positive psychology. Psychologist Barbara Fredrickson has written about the importance of shared positive emotions and caring deeply about your partner’s well-being. When empathy and compassion are present, both individuals feel seen, understood, and supported in meaningful ways.

Sixth, she invests in shared experiences. A partner who creates memories with you—through road trips, hobbies, or even simple nights at home—builds a foundation that weathers future challenges. These moments create a shared story, one that brings laughter, resilience, and closeness. Studies in positive psychology highlight how engaging in joyful activities as a couple increases relationship satisfaction. It’s not just about spending time together, but doing so with a sense of exploration and fun. Whether it’s trying a new restaurant, learning to cook a new dish, or attending an unfamiliar event, the spirit of togetherness deepens emotional bonds.

Seventh, she embraces humor and maintains a positive attitude. A good sense of humor isn’t just fun—it’s psychologically powerful. It shows emotional flexibility, intelligence, and an ability to de-escalate tension. Life brings stress, but a woman who can lighten the mood and share laughter can help both of you manage tough times. This doesn’t mean she’s constantly joking or doesn’t take life seriously. Instead, she introduces levity at the right moments, offering emotional relief. Neuroscientist Robert Provine’s research confirms that laughter releases endorphins, enhancing mood and decreasing stress. In relationships, humor can prevent arguments from escalating, encourage problem-solving, and create a relaxed atmosphere where both partners feel free to be themselves.

Putting all these traits together paints a clear picture. No one is perfect, and it’s unrealistic to expect any partner to exhibit every ideal quality at all times. Still, when these key behaviors—support for personal growth, clear communication, emotional availability, mutual trust, empathy, shared experiences, and humor—are present, the relationship gains the strength and depth needed for long-term happiness. These psychological pillars are not only signs of a good partner, but a roadmap to building a partnership that thrives.

What truly matters is that the core ingredients are present.You don’t need a flawless partner. Instead, focus on how both of you show up for each other. It’s not just about what someone brings to your life, but how you grow in response. Healthy relationships are built when both people engage equally, mirroring each other’s compassion, trust, and joy.

In the end, the happiest relationship of your life isn’t some far-off fantasy. It’s built step by step, through small acts of encouragement, moments of vulnerability, and shared laughter. “So, if you notice that special someone cheering you on, meeting you halfway in communication, helping you grow, and laughing with you through life’s inevitable chaos—consider yourself incredibly lucky. You just might have found the relationship that will bring the deepest joy and fulfillment to your life.”

Gratitude is widely praised in positive psychology as a life-enhancing practice, known for shifting our mindset and boosting well-being. However, new research indicates its impact may reach much deeper—possibly reshaping the very makeup of our cellular memory and fostering healing not just mentally, but physically.

We tend to think of gratitude as a tool to improve attitude or mental health. But what if its influence extends into the biological foundation of who we are? Scientists are now exploring the idea that gratitude not only helps reframe our experiences but may also change how our bodies store and process those experiences at the cellular level.

We live through stories. The ways we narrate our lives determine not only how we remember the past but also how we anticipate the future. In the face of hardship, these internal narratives can either lift us up or hold us down. Gratitude plays a crucial role in reshaping these personal stories. This shift goes far beyond a fleeting positive thought. It alters how memories are embedded, recorded, and ultimately woven into our identity. Practicing gratitude prompts a shift in attention—from what’s missing to what is present—causing a mental realignment that resonates throughout our psychological and biological systems.

Traditionally, memory is linked to pathways in the brain, but new findings challenge this limited view. A more complex picture is forming, one in which memory may also exist throughout the body, embedded in individual cells. This developing perspective aligns with insights from trauma research, which observes that physical bodies store the imprint of traumatic experiences—a view captured in the phrase, “the body keeps the score.”

If traumatic memories are held in the body, then could uplifting emotions, like gratitude, also become part of our cellular memory? This is the heart of what makes gratitude so compelling from a healing perspective.

Gratitude may serve as a method of cellular reprogramming. As we intentionally practice thankfulness, we may be rewriting the biological data stored within our cells. This process is connected to a concept called epigenetics, which studies how behavior and environment influence the way genes are expressed.Epigenetic changes are stored in cells in a way that facilitates rapid adaptation to environmental changes.. These adaptations create what scientists refer to as “epigenetic memory,” which functions like a biological journal of our environmental and emotional history.

When we repeatedly experience gratitude, it induces consistent positive emotional states that activate specific biochemical processes. Studies reveal that gratitude triggers brain regions tied to morality, reward systems, and social fairness. These areas release chemicals like dopamine, serotonin, and oxytocin—known not just for elevating mood but for their ability to affect how our cells function throughout the body. In this way, consistent gratitude could form positive cellular memories that balance out past stress responses. Through intentional gratitude, we may quite literally be encoding new information into the epigenome—an archive of our life experiences stored at the cellular level.

Some researchers also highlight the special role of the heart. More than a metaphor for emotion, the heart houses about 40,000 sensory neurites—nerve cells that can encode and transmit information. Often called the “heart-brain,” this system appears to play a unique role in our biological response to gratitude.

This discovery supports why heart-focused gratitude exercises, like those developed by the HeartMath Institute, have proven especially effective in reducing anxiety and aiding recovery. “When we focus on feeling gratitude in the heart area, we may be directly influencing this ‘intracardiac nervous system’ and its ability to store and transmit information throughout the body” .

The implications of this knowledge are profound. Rather than simply thinking grateful thoughts, one can harness gratitude as a healing tool by engaging in intentional and embodied practices. For example, “feel the sensation of appreciation in your body, particularly in your heart area. Notice where gratitude creates physical sensations of warmth, expansion, or relaxation.” This approach transforms gratitude into a full-body experience, anchoring it more deeply into both emotion and physiology.

Another method involves rewriting our own stories through a lens of thankfulness. This is called narrative reconstruction—viewing painful events from a perspective of growth and strength. When you ask how adversity shaped you for the better, it provides an opportunity to create “new cellular memories in areas holding physical tension or dysfunction.”

Express gratitude toward one’s own body—especially parts that are unwell or in pain. This simple act may create fresh positive cellular imprints that replace negative, stress-laden ones. As the piece puts it, “express appreciation for your body’s functions and capabilities, particularly those parts experiencing illness or pain.”

Crucially, these changes don’t depend on long or dramatic rituals. Consistency is more powerful than intensity. The article notes, “Brief daily gratitude practices create more sustained biochemical changes than occasional intense sessions. Even three minutes daily can shift your cellular responses over time.”

Science supports several mechanisms through which gratitude might produce these effects. One of the most striking findings in the field of epigenetics is that epigenetic memory can be inherited. This means your gratitude practice may not just benefit you—it could influence your descendants as well.

Additionally, recent studies show that memory isn’t solely stored in the brain’s synapses. Instead, the peripheral nervous system—which stretches through the body—can serve as a memory backup. Gratitude may more easily tap into and revise these widespread memory systems than purely intellectual approaches.

Perhaps most provocatively, cells across the body seem capable of remembering by encoding and storing experience-based information. Gratitude activates a full-body experience that could be influencing this complex memory system. As such, healing may not be top-down—from the brain to the body—but also inside out, from the cell to the system.

Ultimately, the intersection of gratitude science and cellular biology introduces a groundbreaking approach to wellness. We often think of gratitude as a fleeting feeling or attitude adjustment, but it might be far more than that. As the article concludes, “When we cultivate gratitude, we’re not simply adopting a positive attitude—we’re potentially rewriting information stored within our cells, creating conditions for transformation at the most fundamental biological level.”

This research reframes our understanding of healing, showing that deep change can come not only from mental shifts but also from cellular evolution. In gratitude, we may have one of the most accessible and profound tools for rewriting the way our bodies remember—and the way we heal.

Sometimes it seems like we’re so consumed by work that we forget what it means to really live.

I’ve definitely experienced it myself—managing several tasks, logging countless hours, and suddenly realizing it had been far too long since I’d taken an actual break.

It’s not surprising that many of us fantasize about relocating to a place where the work-life balance is healthier—where you can fulfill your professional duties without feeling chained to your desk.

That’s what we’re focusing on at DM News today: eight nations that make it easier to work less, enjoy life more, and embrace a lifestyle that prioritizes personal well-being.

Let’s explore.

Denmark

I first came across Denmark’s famous work-life balance through a friend who accepted a teaching position in Copenhagen.

She often joked that for the first time, she understood what it meant to have “free time” that was truly her own.

Danish workplaces typically support flexible hours—some employees begin early and leave early, while others opt for later shifts if that suits them better.

According to the World Economic Forum, Denmark ranks highest globally for work-life balance.

Most Danes dedicate around two-thirds of their day—roughly 16 hours—to eating, sleeping, and enjoying leisure activities.

This approach is rooted in a national philosophy known as “hygge,” centered around comfort, simplicity, and savoring life’s small joys.

Combined with progressive parental leave and an emphasis on family life, it’s easy to see why stress is comparatively low.

This balance extends beyond work. People in Denmark take time to enjoy a coffee or relax at a park instead of racing from one task to the next.

If you’re used to a hectic lifestyle, adopting the Danish mindset could transform how you view your career.

Netherlands

The Netherlands is widely known for its bicycle culture, but another key trait stands out: it champions part-time employment.

Many Dutch workers hold part-time roles yet still earn enough for a comfortable lifestyle.

One study revealed that Dutch employees average just 32.2 working hours per week—the shortest in Europe.

And yet, they maintain high productivity levels. It’s not about reducing effort—it’s about making the most of your work hours and reserving time for life outside the job.

When I attended a marketing conference in Amsterdam, I noticed that offices and stores closed at sensible times.

A colleague there told me, “We believe in working to live, not living to work.” That mindset explains why the Netherlands ranks high in life satisfaction.

You won’t hear people boasting about all-nighters. Instead, efficiency and balance are what matter.

It’s a smart approach for those looking to enjoy life while still advancing professionally.

Norway

Norway offers more than just breathtaking landscapes—it also promotes a culture that genuinely values personal time.

If you’ve met Norwegians, you’ve likely seen how laid-back they are about scheduling, thanks in part to their shorter workweeks.

The average workweek is around 37.5 hours, and employees typically receive five weeks of paid vacation annually.

That’s what real downtime looks like—no emails from the beach or guilt over time away from your desk.

What stands out is the high level of trust in workplaces. Employees are given autonomy, which cultivates loyalty and responsibility.

When people feel appreciated and are allowed to recharge, they tend to be more efficient during work hours.

It’s a win for both workers and businesses.

Germany

Germany may be known for its precision and discipline, but it also respects the boundary between work and personal life.

In many German workplaces, once your workday ends, you’re not expected to respond to messages or calls.

That might seem unusual for those accustomed to constant phone alerts from colleagues or clients.

Additionally, German labor laws protect the right to rest. By law, full-time employees are entitled to at least 24 days of paid vacation annually, along with strict limits on working hours.

Living in a country where free time is seen as essential to well-being can be a game-changer.

If you’ve ever lounged in a German beer garden on a sunny afternoon, you’ve probably witnessed how they truly embrace downtime.

Sweden

The Swedish term “lagom” roughly means “just enough,” and it influences everything from food servings to work routines.

Some Swedish companies even experimented with a six-hour workday in recent years.

Though it wasn’t widely implemented, the experiment sparked conversation about whether more hours actually lead to better results.

During my visit to Stockholm, I observed that coffee breaks—or “fika”—are almost sacred. Workers are encouraged to pause, socialize, and refresh themselves during the day.

It’s more than just a break—it’s a reflection of Sweden’s belief in meaningful connection and mental well-being.

If taking a short coffee break has ever made you feel guilty, Sweden’s culture might offer a refreshing change.

France

France’s 35-hour workweek, introduced in the early 2000s, helped shape a national attitude that values leisure.

The French take pride in enjoying good meals, conversations, and extended time off.

Stroll through Paris in the late afternoon, and you’ll find cafés bustling with people already off the clock or taking long breaks.

When I studied in Lyon one summer, businesses would often shut down for a couple of hours mid-day.

Lunch was a serious affair, and this rhythm was widely accepted as part of life.

Even though larger companies may operate more flexibly now, the overall ethos remains one of not letting work dominate every waking hour.

The idea that life should be relished—not rushed—is deeply ingrained in French culture and supported by labor laws.

Australia

Australia’s easygoing vibe extends to its approach to employment, with a standard full-time workweek of about 38 hours.

But what’s even more telling is how seriously Australians take their time off.

While working remotely with an Australian team during my marketing career, it was standard practice to unplug completely while on leave.

One of our managers even recommended deleting email apps from our phones during vacations.

Australians also have access to flexible arrangements such as extended unpaid leave for travel, study, or personal reasons.

That kind of flexibility reflects a national understanding that people are more than just their job titles.

New Zealand

New Zealand is another country embracing the idea that work should fit around life—not the other way around.

Many Kiwis take “gap years” or extended time off to travel and explore themselves.

Some companies have even tried four-day workweeks, finding that shorter schedules can improve both productivity and employee happiness.

Though it’s not standard everywhere, it signals an openness to rethink traditional work models.

The country’s natural beauty, from Queenstown to Fiordland, encourages people to disconnect and enjoy their surroundings.

Even in cities like Auckland, it’s common to see people leaving work in time to watch the sunset.

You get the impression that New Zealanders aim to live well every day, not just on weekends.

In Conclusion

A well-balanced life isn’t a fantasy in these eight countries—it’s part of the norm. They show that it’s possible to work efficiently while still having time to rest and enjoy life.

Each country has its own unique lifestyle, but they all embrace the belief that work is just one part of a fulfilling existence.

Relocating may not be realistic for everyone, but we can still take inspiration from these examples: respect your personal time, create boundaries, and remember that you’re not a machine.

As we always say at DM News, staying informed and inspired starts with recognizing that a “less work, more life” philosophy isn’t just possible—it’s already real elsewhere.

When it comes to love, there’s a big difference between settling for any relationship and choosing the one that brings genuine happiness. Contrary to the ideals we often see in films, true joy in a relationship doesn’t come from grand gestures or dramatic romance. Instead, it’s found in the quiet, consistent actions of a partner who understands what it means to truly care.

Psychology identifies seven behaviors that are essential for a fulfilling relationship. When a man exhibits these traits regularly, chances are you’ve found someone who can lead you into the happiest chapter of your romantic life.

Let’s explore these seven crucial behaviors that can shape a deeply rewarding partnership.

He expresses genuine empathy

Empathy isn’t just a trendy concept—it’s the foundation of emotional connection in any meaningful relationship. It’s not simply about acknowledging your emotions; rather, it’s about your partner stepping into your shoes and feeling what you feel. This depth of understanding builds a powerful emotional bond.

A man who practices true empathy will not only understand your experiences but will also honor your emotions. That level of consideration helps you feel validated and supported. When both people show this mutual respect, they create a relationship that thrives.

Importantly, empathy is most valuable in times of difficulty, not just joy. If you’ve found a man who consistently empathizes during both your highs and lows, you’re already closer to experiencing the most fulfilling relationship of your life.

He prioritizes communication

Open and honest communication is the lifeline of any healthy relationship. From personal experience, I’ve seen that conflicts can be constructive if handled through dialogue. In one relationship, after a serious disagreement, my partner and I chose to talk it out instead of letting the issue linger. We shared our feelings, truly listened, and arrived at a resolution.

This process not only solved the immediate issue but also deepened our connection. Good communication isn’t about always agreeing—it’s about addressing differences openly and maturely.

When your partner is willing to communicate even during rough times, the relationship becomes more resilient and capable of lasting happiness.

He embraces your flaws

Have you ever felt like you couldn’t show your true self in a relationship? That feeling can be exhausting and unsustainable. Real happiness starts when you’re accepted for who you are—quirks, flaws, and all.

In my own life, the most satisfying relationships were those in which both partners stopped trying to change each other. Instead, they cherished each other’s individuality.

Psychologist Carl Jung once said, “The most terrifying thing is to accept oneself completely.” That truth applies to relationships too. When your partner accepts you fully, it creates a safe and loving space.

A man who loves you as you are—without trying to mold you into someone else—can bring you the happiest relationship you’ll ever experience. True love lies not in finding perfection but in embracing imperfection wholeheartedly.

He respects your boundaries

A truly healthy relationship requires mutual respect, especially when it comes to personal boundaries. It’s not just about knowing your partner’s limits but also honoring them consistently.

According to research published in the Journal of Personality and Social Psychology, couples who respect each other’s boundaries tend to report higher satisfaction in their relationships. They face fewer conflicts and feel more secure together.

In everyday life, this might look like your partner recognizing your need for alone time or never pressuring you to share something you’re not ready to discuss. Boundaries are not walls—they are guidelines that foster mutual respect and emotional safety.

If your man understands and respects your personal space and emotional needs, it’s a strong indication that your relationship is on the path to lasting happiness.

He shows appreciation

Feeling valued is a basic human need. In my own experience, when appreciation is present, even tough times become more bearable. Being acknowledged makes people feel seen and cherished.

Appreciation means expressing gratitude, recognizing your partner’s efforts, and letting them know they matter. Renowned psychologist William James put it well: “The deepest principle in human nature is the craving to be appreciated.”

When your partner routinely thanks you, acknowledges your work, or notices the small things you do, it transforms the relationship. It turns everyday life into something meaningful and warm.

If your partner never misses a chance to show gratitude, you’re in the presence of someone who can give you the happiest relationship of your life.

He encourages your independence

Independence within a relationship might seem contradictory, but it’s vital. Many believe that love requires sacrificing freedom—but real love respects it.

Healthy relationships allow both partners to maintain their individuality. You should be free to pursue your interests, dreams, and passions, even within a committed partnership.

Psychologist Erich Fromm wisely said, “Love is union with somebody, or something, outside oneself, under the condition of retaining the separateness and integrity of one’s own self.”

When a man supports your independence, it shows trust and emotional maturity. He understands that your identity doesn’t have to dissolve in the relationship—instead, it can thrive.

Having a partner who encourages your personal growth and respects your autonomy is a sign of a truly happy and supportive relationship.

He’s consistent

While surprises and romantic gestures have their place, the true mark of a dependable partner is consistency. It’s the steady presence and reliability that build lasting trust.

Psychologist Albert Bandura once said, “People with high assurance in their capabilities approach difficult tasks as challenges to be mastered rather than as threats to be avoided.” A consistent man applies this attitude to relationships. You can count on him, not just when things are easy, but also when challenges arise.

This reliability reinforces trust, and trust is the backbone of any joyful relationship. A consistent partner proves through actions—not just words—that he’s committed and dependable.

Final thoughts

At their core, human relationships are intricate but often grounded in simple principles. These seven behaviors may seem straightforward, but together, they hold the power to define a truly fulfilling relationship.

Of course, no one is perfect. The goal isn’t to find a man who flawlessly exhibits these traits every day, but rather someone who strives to live by them consistently. Effort and intention make all the difference.

Ultimately, the happiest relationship of your life is not only about what your partner brings to the table—it’s about what you both build together. Love, respect, and mutual understanding form the foundation of a joyful, lasting partnership.

So as you navigate love and life, keep these seven behaviors in mind. They’re not just signs of a good relationship—they’re the roadmap to the happiest one of all.

Ralph Young, now a centenarian, has lived through war, personal loss, and major world changes — and still offers wisdom about leading a long and fulfilling life, especially when faced with hardships or surprises.

Born and raised in Kentucky, Young was the youngest of 11 siblings. His childhood home lacked basic utilities like electricity and running water. However, the family had a garden and preserved their own food, which they sold in their small community of Greasy Ridge. Life was tough, but it was a foundation that built resilience in him from a young age.

At just 10 years old, Young found himself taking on major responsibilities. His mother suffered a stroke that left her with limited mobility, and his father handed him the task of handling the household laundry and meals. He describes this as his first job, which required carrying heavy loads of laundry and washing clothes by hand in a nearby spring.

Despite the demands, Young remembers those times fondly because they brought him closer to his mother. “With all that time together, my mother and I got close,” he recalled.

In 1943, when Young was 18, he made a pivotal decision to enlist in the U.S. Navy, choosing to sign up before receiving a draft notice. His service took him into the heart of World War II. Saying goodbye to his family was a moment he still remembers vividly. “I remember my mom sitting on the front porch, tears streaming down her cheeks,” he told Dayton Daily News. “She told me, ‘Everything is going to be alright, Ralph.’ I knew she was going to watch over me.”

Sadly, while Young was overseas serving his country, his mother passed away. It was a deeply emotional loss for someone who had shared such a close bond with her.

After the war ended, Young was discharged from the Navy in 1946. The following year, he returned home and married Charlotte, his first wife. Together, they had three children and built a life that took them on journeys far from the humble beginnings of Greasy Ridge.

By the mid-1950s, global electrification efforts were ramping up, and the engineering company Young worked for needed someone to lead a critical international project. The assignment was to help develop a power system in Thailand, and Young saw it as a great adventure. He wasn’t the only one enthusiastic about the move. “Charlotte was as eager to go as I was,” he said.

The family spent several years living in Asia, including time in Indonesia due to another job posting. Even after returning to the United States, Young’s career kept him on the move, taking him to countries like Saudi Arabia and Iran. He remained active in his profession until he officially retired at the age of 70.

In 2000, Charlotte began showing signs of serious illness. She was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease, and Young stayed by her side until she passed away in 2006, six years after her diagnosis. Her death was a heavy blow, and Young was 81 at the time.

The loss led him into a period of reflection and deep sorrow. He questioned whether life held anything more for him. But rather than giving in to grief, he found strength through faith and purpose. “Always have something to do. That’s what has helped me,” he shared. “My faith in God and my willingness to conquer anything I started.”

His life took an unexpected but joyful turn when he reconnected with a woman named Janice. They had known each other four decades earlier. After hearing about Charlotte’s passing, Janice reached out to offer comfort. “I understand,” she wrote — she had lost her husband just five months before Charlotte’s death.

That simple message reopened a meaningful connection. Janice eventually invited Young to join her for Christmas. From there, the two started spending more time together and having frequent conversations. Their bond deepened, and it wasn’t long before they chose to marry and start a new chapter of life together.

Reflecting on his extraordinary journey, Young said, “You can do a lot of things you don’t think you can do.”

From a childhood spent cooking and washing laundry in rural Kentucky to traveling the world as an engineer, from losing his mother while at war to losing his wife to Alzheimer’s, Ralph Young’s century of life is a testament to endurance, optimism, and the human ability to rebuild. Through every twist and turn, he’s lived by the principle of staying active, nurturing faith, and embracing every new opportunity.

Many people misjudge what will truly bring them happiness, according to Laurie Santos, a happiness expert who trained at Harvard University. While it’s common to believe that a promotion or a higher salary will lead to joy and a sense of fulfillment, Santos argues that these assumptions can be misleading. In some cases, such as when someone is struggling to cover basic expenses like rent, financial gains may indeed offer relief. However, once basic needs are met, happiness is more likely to be sustained through consistent, small daily habits that promote health and connection, she explained during a live taping of the interview series “Last Meal with Tom Nash” at SXSW on March 12.

Santos, who is also a psychology professor at Yale University, emphasized that sacrificing sleep, exercise, or time with loved ones in pursuit of professional or financial goals can end up compromising one’s happiness. In contrast, maintaining a focus on health, rest, and relationships offers a more effective and lasting return on emotional well-being. “Material possessions, fame, professional accolades at work … We think those are going to be the stuff that moves the needle,” Santos said. “[But] we’re often pursuing that stuff at opportunity cost of the stuff that really matters.”

Her perspective aligns with findings from a 2022 meta-analysis published in the Journal of Personality and Social Psychology, which concluded that goals centered on one’s social, emotional, and physical health tend to contribute more positively to well-being than those based on external validation or the approval of others.

Santos outlined three straightforward and science-backed habits that can help people feel happier on a daily basis:

Keeping a Gratitude Journal

One of the most effective ways to enhance happiness is through practicing gratitude. Writing down things you’re thankful for—whether it’s a stable home, a strong relationship, or a hobby that brings you joy—has been shown to elevate both emotional and physical well-being. According to Santos, the benefits of this habit increase over time. In her free online course “The Science of Well-Being for Teens,” which launched in 2023, she said, “The longer you keep a gratitude journal, the more of a difference you’ll notice.”

Supporting this idea, a 2020 study by psychologists from the University of Twente and Eastern Washington University found that practicing gratitude for just 15 minutes a day, five days a week over six weeks can significantly improve mental wellness. Additional research shows that gratitude practices can lower stress levels, sharpen mental clarity, and enhance the quality of relationships, sleep, and overall mental health.

While journaling is one option, it’s not the only way to experience the benefits of gratitude. Santos and other experts note that alternative methods—such as writing thank you notes, acknowledging small acts of kindness from strangers, or reflecting on when someone has treated you kindly—can offer similar advantages. People can choose the approach that best suits their preferences and lifestyle.

Improving Sleep—Even Slightly

Getting more sleep is another critical component of happiness and mental health, and even small increases can make a big difference. “I actually think we could solve most of the mental health in college age students and high school students if we just forced [them] to get more sleep,” Santos said in her online course.

Research has consistently demonstrated that sleeping at least seven hours per night can boost cognitive function, enhance mood, and reduce the risk of chronic conditions like heart disease and dementia. To help people improve the quality of their rest, Santos recommends using a traditional alarm clock and leaving phones in another room while sleeping. “I know there’s stuff to do … but if you can just get the right amount of shut eye, you really will improve your mental health much more than you expect,” she said.

The importance of adequate rest is echoed by longevity specialist Poonam Desai, who also spoke to CNBC Make It. “It’s something we do every single day. It’s free. You have an opportunity to optimize it every single day,” Desai said, emphasizing that sleep is the number one most effective way to maintain long-term physical health.

Connecting in Real Time with Others

Santos also stresses the importance of real-time social interaction. While digital communication through social media and texting allows for easy contact with people near and far, it doesn’t provide the same mental uplift as engaging with others in person or in real-time conversations. Speaking on the “Huberman Lab” podcast in December 2024, Santos explained that real-life social experiences have a more meaningful impact on happiness.

“The two things that predict whether or not you’re happy … is how much time you spend with friends and family members, and how much time you’re just physically around other people,” Santos said.

This includes brief and seemingly minor interactions. Even talking with your local barista during a coffee run can elevate your mood, regardless of whether you consider yourself introverted or extroverted. Santos explained that these small connections can significantly influence our emotional state. “It gives you a sense that your life is going better,” she said. “You feel less lonely. [Being social] has all these positive outcomes that we don’t expect.”

Taken together, Santos’ guidance encourages a shift in how people think about the pursuit of happiness. Instead of chasing larger, often external achievements—like promotions or financial success—people can benefit more from smaller, consistent efforts that enhance physical, mental, and social well-being. These daily habits may not be glamorous or headline-making, but they are deeply effective at fostering a lasting sense of happiness.

Santos’ insights serve as a reminder that happiness often lies in what we overlook. While ambition and hard work can be valuable, they shouldn’t come at the cost of one’s health, rest, or relationships. By practicing gratitude, prioritizing quality sleep, and fostering real-life connections, people can build a foundation for sustained happiness—without waiting for a major life event to bring it.