Author: Staff Reporter

As the annual time shift approaches, most parts of the United States and Canada are gearing up to return to standard time, with clocks scheduled to move back an hour early on Sunday morning. The transition officially happens at 2 a.m., when clocks are set back to 1 a.m. This shift grants an extra hour of sleep for many, while overnight workers experience an additional hour in their shifts. The return to standard time means earlier sunrises, but also earlier sunsets, ushering in the shortest days of the year over the next six weeks.

For many people, automated and electronic devices, like smartphones and computers, will adjust to the new time on their own. However, time will still need to be manually changed on some appliances, such as older microwaves, stoves, and certain car clocks. A few may relate to the sentiment of a writer who noted, “I still haven’t fixed my stove, which has been blinking an incorrect time since a power outage back in July, so that ship has sailed.”

The History of Daylight Saving Time

The concept of daylight saving time dates back to 1784, when Benjamin Franklin, in a lighthearted jest, suggested the practice. In a satirical letter to the editor of the Journal of Paris, Franklin humorously calculated how much Parisians could save on candles if they adjusted their schedules during the winter.

Germany became the first country to officially implement daylight saving time in 1916, followed by the United States in 1918. Initially, it was met with resistance from farmers, who found the change inconvenient as it limited the morning hours available to harvest and prepare goods for market openings.

Although the concept had been introduced, a nationwide daylight saving time law didn’t go into effect in the U.S. until 1966. Before that, during the 1940s and ’50s, local governments were free to set their own schedules, leading to widespread confusion, particularly in the transportation sector. In response, the Uniform Time Act of 1966 established consistent dates for daylight saving time across the country, while allowing states to opt out as long as their choice was uniform statewide. Interestingly, the U.S. Department of Transportation was assigned the task of enforcing this legislation to ensure consistent timekeeping.

Today, most states observe daylight saving time and participate in the annual “fall back” on the first Sunday in November. However, there are exceptions. Arizona, Hawaii, and U.S. territories like American Samoa, Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands all opt out. Arizona’s time practice is especially unique. While the state largely observes standard time year-round, the Navajo Nation, which covers a significant portion of Arizona, still participates in the daylight saving time change.

The Debate: Should We Stop Changing Clocks?

The tradition of changing clocks twice a year has long sparked debate, with many Americans expressing a preference to end the practice. There have been multiple attempts in Congress to make daylight saving time permanent, but most efforts have stalled.

Additionally, there is a regional push to adopt a different time zone for certain areas in the Northeast. In states like Rhode Island, Connecticut, and parts of Massachusetts, many advocate for a move to Atlantic Standard Time. This shift would mean cities such as Boston and Providence would share the same time zone as Nova Scotia, potentially eliminating early winter sunsets before 4:30 p.m. “Boston’s earliest sunsets happen at 4:11 p.m. during the first week in December, even though sunrises creep before 7 a.m.,” according to proponents of this proposal, which gained some traction in 2016.

However, for those in northern regions like Utqiagvik, Alaska, the impact of daylight saving time is minimal. In Utqiagvik, the northernmost town in the United States, the sun sets for a period lasting 62 days, and no time change can alter that.

What is the essence of human happiness? It’s a question that has intrigued humanity for centuries. Ron Gutman, a Stanford adjunct professor, serial entrepreneur, author, speaker, and award-winning inventor, has dedicated a significant portion of his career to understanding it. Known for his widely viewed TED Talk from 2011, *”The Hidden Power of Smiling,”* Gutman took his research to the next level with a trip to Bhutan in October 2024, hoping to uncover insights on happiness from the South Asian kingdom where well-being is prioritized over economic growth.

Journeying Through Bhutan

In October, Gutman embarked on a three-week exploration of Bhutan, a country often called the Kingdom of Bhutan, nestled in the eastern Himalayas. Accompanied by academics, clergy, and local guides, Gutman trekked across the country’s rugged landscape, absorbing the Bhutanese way of life and their understanding of happiness. Bhutan is notable for its focus on “Gross National Happiness,” a concept coined in the 1970s by Bhutan’s fourth king, Jigme Singye Wangchuck. The king asserted, “Gross National Happiness is more important than Gross Domestic Product,” as quoted in a recent OECD report. This philosophy of prioritizing collective happiness and well-being over economic advancement distinguishes Bhutan on the world stage.

“Going deep into understanding happiness led me to researching Bhutan, because they put an emphasis on this,” Gutman explained in an interview with CNBC Make It. He added, “It made me want to understand it from their vantage point, right? So, [I wanted] to go and listen to them, to the people that have been getting this knowledge, from generation to generation for many [years].”

Most of Gutman’s journey was a physically demanding climb through Bhutan’s high-altitude terrain, traveling mostly on foot or by local means. The elevation ranged from around 1,000 feet to nearly 14,000 feet, offering him ample opportunity to immerse himself in Bhutan’s serene and awe-inspiring natural environment.

Bhutan’s Unique Connection to Nature

Environmental sustainability is deeply embedded in Bhutan’s national identity. The country is the world’s first “carbon-negative” nation, a status helped by its extensive forests, which cover over 70% of the country. A 2023 report highlights how this dedication to conservation has shaped Bhutan’s policies and practices. Gutman observed, “They’re very mindful of nature, very protective of nature… It’s sacred for them. You can’t cut a tree without getting a very special permit.”

For many Bhutanese, the bond with nature is more profound than simple respect; it is foundational to their identity. Gutman noted how locals perceive their lives as not merely connected to nature but as emanating from it. This deeply ingrained belief reflects Bhutan’s commitment to safeguarding its natural environment as a crucial component of its philosophy on happiness and well-being.

The Key to Happiness: Simplicity

So, what is the key to happiness? For Gutman, the answer lies in simplicity. He discovered during his time in Bhutan that happiness is closely tied to mindfulness, which can often be found through a connection with nature. Gutman observed, “The more I progress in the research of happiness, the more I personally understand it better, the more I connect it to mindfulness.”

He realized, by observing Bhutanese people and conversing with local religious figures, that happiness is rooted in mindfulness. In his view, modern culture often fosters a fixation on external stimuli, which can become overwhelming. “In modern culture, we’re very concentrated on what’s happening outside. There’s a lot of stimulus that is coming at us …. At some point, we become almost prisoners of that,” he said. In contrast, nature, Gutman reflected, has a calming effect: “Nature creates the exact opposite …. Nature is just there, it just happens.”

Gutman describes this discovery as a revelation about the “empty self.” Just as nature exists in a state of tranquility, so too can human consciousness, he argues. Whether resting beside a secluded lake or hurrying through a bustling city, Gutman believes that our consciousness remains inherently calm and unchanged. He remarked, “We basically choose to get stressed by all these sensory emotions… [because] actually, the inside of us is calm and empty, right? Nature helps see that and understand that.”

Bhutan’s Challenges

However, despite its strengths, Bhutan faces numerous challenges. Only recently did Bhutan leave the UN’s Least Developed Countries category in December. The nation’s GDP per capita was approximately $3,700 in 2022, according to World Bank figures. “We look at it as maybe poverty — low GDP,” Gutman explained. Yet, he was struck by the happiness he observed among Bhutanese citizens, despite their relative lack of material wealth. “It’s not an easy life because these are not wealthy people, but they’re happy,” he said.

The Bhutanese government has been actively working to improve the economy while maintaining its values of environmental sustainability and Gross National Happiness. Policies like a daily tourism fee are one way Bhutan tries to uphold its guiding principles. Gutman believes that Bhutan’s balance between progress and tradition exemplifies a unique approach to growth. “It’s a country that demonstrates how you can innovate without forgetting the ancient wisdom that has supported them for centuries,” he said.

Lessons from Bhutan’s Approach

Gutman’s experience in Bhutan highlighted for him the importance of balancing innovation with tradition. Many developed nations, he observed, often prioritize rapid development and constant change, leaving behind some foundational values. He explained, “When we rush towards the innovation, the new thing, doing things faster, better, easier, cheaper … The thing is, we forget to take with us this very solid foundation that keeps the core very strong. So we’re building a little bit on water.”

According to Gutman, the Bhutanese model shows that slower progress, grounded in strong ethics and mindfulness, can create a more resilient society. He pointed out, “And I think what Bhutanese are doing really well … is keeping that strong core of beliefs, of morals, of ethics, of mindfulness as the foundation of how they make progress. So progress is, sure, slower, but more solid, right? And, I think that’s something to learn from them.”

Conclusion: A Path to Inner Calm

Through his journey, Gutman gained valuable insights on the simplicity of happiness. In Bhutan, he encountered a culture that values mindfulness, a connection with nature, and a slower, more deliberate approach to progress. Gutman left with a sense of admiration for Bhutan’s commitment to preserving its environment, traditions, and focus on Gross National Happiness, offering the world a unique perspective on well-being that contrasts sharply with many developed nations.

In an era dominated by a relentless drive for economic advancement, Gutman’s experience in Bhutan serves as a reminder that happiness might not come from pursuing more but rather from embracing less. The “empty self” and the simplicity found in nature and mindfulness, Gutman argues, could offer a more profound understanding of happiness for those willing to look inward instead of outward.

Bhutan, widely recognized as one of the happiest nations globally, is embarking on a transformative project with the potential to set new standards in sustainable living. This ambitious venture, known as the “Mindfulness City,” is underway in Gelephu, a Special Administrative Region (SAR) in Bhutan. Spanning over 2,500 square kilometers, the region will function as a semi-autonomous zone, equipped with its own government, legal system, and judiciary, establishing it as an independent entity within Bhutan.

The project’s distinctiveness lies not just in its size but in its commitment to sustainability and harmonious living with nature. Gelephu Mindfulness City will incorporate two protected ecological zones: a national park and a wildlife sanctuary. These areas will house a network of rivers with renewable energy capacity, projected to generate between 4,000 and 5,000 megawatts of electricity. Additionally, the city will feature agricultural zones, small towns, extensive forests, and diverse wildlife, aligning with Bhutan’s dedication to environmental conservation and sustainable practices.

Bhutan’s King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck conceived this “Mindfulness City” to elevate the nation’s growth while preserving its values and resources. The king envisions a place where individuals from various backgrounds can live together in harmony with nature, fostering a multicultural yet ecologically focused society. Prime Minister Tshering Tobgay spoke at the NDTV World Summit in New Delhi, describing the project as “Gross National Happiness 2.0.” He shared, “This is what we call ‘Gross National Happiness 2.0,'” highlighting the city’s goal to enhance the well-being of Bhutanese people through a refined model of sustainable and mindful urban living.

Significantly, Gelephu is strategically situated near Bhutan’s border with Assam, India. The prime minister noted that the location choice is intended to strengthen ties with India, emphasizing that the city will “directly benefit India” in numerous ways. This proximity to India underscores Bhutan’s commitment to collaboration with its neighboring country. The Bhutanese Prime Minister added, “The King had one word for why Gelephu: ‘India’,” illustrating the visionary outlook for integrating Bhutan and India’s futures.

The choice of Gelephu, a biologically rich and pristine area, was not arbitrary. Initially, Prime Minister Tobgay questioned why the project wasn’t placed in Bhutan’s existing infrastructure hubs like Thimphu or Paro, where airports and highways already exist. In response, the king conveyed that Bhutan’s future is inseparably linked with India, explaining, “If we chose any other place, then such a project may succeed, it may have its challenges, but if we plan this along the border with India, the concept itself will drive it to success.” This statement underscores Bhutan’s strategy to develop a collaborative, cross-border vision with India through this groundbreaking city.

Once realized, the Mindfulness City will occupy nearly 2.5% of Bhutan’s total landmass, an area more expansive than the entire nation of Singapore. Comparatively, it will dwarf Bhutan’s capital, Thimphu, which spans just 26 square kilometers, in contrast to Gelephu’s impressive 2,500 square kilometers. The city’s blueprint involves a series of “inhabitable bridges” that will link different areas, fostering a sense of interconnectedness across the region’s natural rivers and streams.

The architectural layout of Gelephu Mindfulness City aims for a low-rise skyline, emphasizing harmony with the surrounding landscape. The city will feature amenities typically found in modern urban centers, including a university, healthcare facilities offering both Western and traditional treatments, markets, and spiritual centers. The development will also see the construction of hydroelectric power plants and hydroponic greenhouses, further supporting Bhutan’s environmentally-conscious objectives.

The city will be divided into 11 key neighborhoods, spanning 35 rivers and streams, designed as mandalas with central public spaces, reinforcing the focus on community and inclusiveness. This design mirrors Bhutan’s Gross National Happiness (GNH) philosophy, where personal well-being, community spirit, and environmental preservation outweigh mere economic considerations. This philosophy has garnered global recognition for its emphasis on a holistic approach to progress, prioritizing the quality of life over GDP growth alone. The kingdom has expressed that the city will prioritize “not just economic development, but personal well-being,” aiming to set a precedent for future urban planning worldwide.

Construction on an international airport in Gelephu has already commenced, setting the stage for the city’s integration into the global network while preserving its unique mindfulness-oriented character. The city aims to redefine modern living, demonstrating how future cities might function in balance with the environment while achieving a high standard of living and well-being for their residents.

Relationships may seem well-adjusted from the outside; you and your partner manage daily responsibilities, communicate smoothly, and rarely clash. Friends and family may even see you as an ideal couple, united and reliable. However, beneath this polished exterior, you might be dealing with an underlying, disheartening void—a feeling that something essential is missing. Conversations might feel shallow, intimacy could seem routine, and the bond you once had may feel more like a faded memory than a current reality.

If you’ve ever wondered whether you’re just “going through the motions” or acting out roles rather than truly connecting, it’s possible that you’re in a functional but loveless relationship. Identifying signs of such a relationship can help you decide whether to reignite the emotional spark or explore alternative options. Here are five signs that may indicate you’re in a functional but emotionally lacking relationship.

1. Conversations Are Only About Practical Matters, Not Personal Connections

A telltale sign of a functional relationship is the dominance of surface-level communication. Conversations typically revolve around daily logistics: coordinating schedules, managing household chores, or discussing finances. While these exchanges are vital for household management, they don’t nurture emotional closeness or deepen the relationship.

In a relationship rooted in emotional closeness, partners discuss more than logistics. They feel comfortable sharing their dreams, insecurities, and deeper thoughts, creating a genuine intimacy. As researcher Michael Kardas of Northwestern University’s Kellogg School of Management points out, meaningful conversations with others can provide unexpected joy and fulfillment.

When conversations with your partner rarely touch on personal topics, and a once-deep connection feels distant, it could be an indication that the relationship has transitioned from emotionally fulfilling to merely functional.

2. Emotional Support Is Lacking, Only Coexistence Remains

One of the hallmarks of a healthy, loving relationship is the presence of mutual emotional support. Partners in such relationships offer each other reassurance, listen attentively to concerns, and respond with empathy. This emotional bond creates a sense of security, allowing each person to feel they have someone to rely on during difficult times.

However, in a functional but loveless relationship, emotional support may be missing. Attempts to share personal challenges might be met with indifference or minimal interest, prompting you to seek support from friends or family instead. This absence of emotional responsiveness can make you feel like you’re merely coexisting rather than connecting, which diminishes the relationship’s sense of vitality and partnership.

3. Physical Affection Feels Obligatory Rather Than Genuine

Physical affection—including hugs, kisses, cuddling, and intimacy—is fundamental to romantic relationships. Studies show that these physical gestures can enhance emotional closeness, passion, and even mental well-being. In a loving relationship, affectionate actions feel genuine and contribute to a profound connection between partners.

In a relationship lacking love, physical affection may still occur, but it often feels forced or transactional. Intimate moments may lack the emotional depth they once had, leading to feelings of detachment or dissatisfaction. When affection feels like a routine task rather than a sincere expression of love, it’s a sign that the relationship has lost its emotional resonance.

4. Avoidance of Issues Due to a “Fine” Status Quo

In many emotionally detached relationships, partners avoid addressing underlying issues because everything appears to be “fine” on the surface. This tendency often stems from a desire to keep the peace; partners may believe it’s unnecessary to “rock the boat” if no visible problems exist.

However, ignoring deeper issues only widens the emotional gap over time. Studies have shown that repressing emotions can lead to poor communication and weakened connections. In a loving relationship, there’s usually a willingness to confront and work through difficulties. Avoiding such discussions to maintain a superficial harmony can signal a lack of emotional foundation necessary for navigating conflicts and growing together as a couple.

5. You Feel Alone, Even When Together

Perhaps the most poignant sign of a functional yet emotionally empty relationship is a sense of isolation that persists even in your partner’s presence. You may share meals, participate in activities, or manage household responsibilities together, yet feel emotionally distanced and lonely. This disheartening experience highlights the absence of true companionship in the relationship.

In their book Addressing Loneliness: Coping, Prevention and Clinical Interventions, the authors state that when a relationship doesn’t provide emotional security, it can lead to an overwhelming sense of loneliness. Without emotional intimacy, partners may withdraw, leading to a profound sense of solitude. If you often feel alone, even with your partner nearby, it’s time to evaluate whether the relationship can be revitalized or if a different path would be more fulfilling.

What Can You Do?

Realizing you’re in a functional but emotionally disconnected relationship is challenging, but it’s also a crucial first step toward meaningful change. If you relate to these signs, it doesn’t mean the relationship is beyond repair.

Many couples go through periods where emotional intimacy takes a backseat to daily responsibilities. To address the emotional disconnection, consider these steps:

1. Initiate Open and Honest Conversations: Begin by expressing your feelings openly. Avoid blaming or judging your partner, and focus on communicating your own experiences and needs. Using “I” statements can help create a non-accusatory, respectful environment.

2. Dedicate Time for Deeper Discussions: Set aside regular time for open conversations, perhaps through weekly “check-ins,” where both partners have the opportunity to share their thoughts and emotions without interruption.

3. Consider Therapy: Seeking the guidance of a professional, either individually or as a couple, can be extremely beneficial. Therapists can help you navigate these feelings, break down communication barriers, and develop strategies to rebuild emotional intimacy.

These proactive steps may help you determine whether the relationship can be rekindled or if it’s best to move forward in a new direction. Reconnecting emotionally takes effort, but it’s possible if both partners are willing to work on their bond and prioritize each other’s needs.

By recognizing the signs of a functional but emotionally distant relationship and taking steps to address the underlying issues, you may be able to reignite the emotional spark or make an informed decision about your future.

Warren Buffett, a man with a net worth of $142 billion, offers invaluable advice not only on how to make smart business decisions but also on how to lead a fulfilling life. His fortune, amassed over decades, has only grown more impressive as he has donated approximately $56 billion to various charities. As the saying by Jim Rohn goes, “You are the average of the five people you spend the most time with,” Buffett underscores that whom you choose to spend your time with is critical—especially your spouse.

In Buffett’s words:

“You want to associate with people who are the kind of person you’d like to be. You’ll move in that direction. And the most important person by far in that respect is your spouse.”

Buffett strongly believes that marrying the right person will make an enormous difference in one’s life. “I can’t overemphasize how important that is. Marry the right person. I’m serious about that. It will make more difference in your life,” he emphasizes.

Studies back up Buffett’s perspective. A 2021 report from the U.S. Census Bureau reveals that married individuals tend to earn considerably more than their unmarried counterparts, and their net worth is often three times greater. Additionally, the Bureau of Labor Statistics found that married couples spend around $10,000 less per person annually than unmarried individuals.

Beyond financial implications, the choice of a life partner plays a significant role in professional success. Research from Washington University in St. Louis, which has been previously discussed, shows that people with reliable and prudent partners perform better at work, receive more promotions, earn higher salaries, and are generally more satisfied with their careers. This effect is attributed to what the researchers term “partner conscientiousness,” which positively influences job satisfaction, income, and career advancement. The study notes that conscientious partners tend to manage more household tasks, exhibit pragmatic behaviors, and contribute to a more satisfying home environment. This, in turn, allows both partners to focus more effectively on their professional lives.

Buffett’s views, echoed by Rohn’s saying, highlight the influence of those closest to us. Good habits are contagious. If one partner is organized and efficient, the other partner benefits by being able to focus more on work. Furthermore, if the less organized partner adopts these traits, both partners can more effectively manage their business and personal lives, potentially leading to greater wealth accumulation.

However, while marriage may lead to financial prosperity, it doesn’t necessarily guarantee better health. A study published in the Journal of Physical Activity and Health found that individuals in romantic relationships tend to exercise less than their single counterparts. The study notes that moderate to vigorous physical activities, like running or lifting weights, are less common among those in relationships. The researchers found that people in romantic relationships are more likely to engage in activities such as eating or watching TV together, rather than exercising. As they put it, “For those with a partner, current (exercise) levels are substantially lower when the partner is present than when the partner is absent.”

This finding reveals that people in relationships tend to engage in less physical activity when they spend time together. In short, the presence of a partner can significantly reduce the likelihood of exercising, as couples often prioritize spending time together over physical activity.

Another study, published in Health Psychology, found that individuals in stable relationships tend to gain more weight over time, beyond what can be attributed to natural aging. Similarly, research in Social Science & Medicine indicates that people in long-term relationships are more likely to gain weight and less likely to engage in physical activity. Interestingly, the study also points out that when relationships end, individuals tend to lose weight and increase their exercise levels.

These studies suggest that individuals in secure relationships may become less focused on their physical appearance, as they feel less pressure to maintain healthy habits like eating well and exercising regularly. This behavior, while understandable, can lead to a decline in physical health.

On the other hand, maintaining a healthy lifestyle — which includes regular exercise — can have profound benefits, both physically and mentally. Research published in the Journal of Comparative Physiology shows that increased blood flow during exercise improves brain plasticity, which enhances cognitive functions. Additionally, a study in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Science found that exercise can increase the size of the hippocampus, which helps mitigate age-related memory loss, even in individuals in their 60s and 70s.

Moreover, a study from the University of Vermont discovered that moderate aerobic exercise can improve mood for up to 12 hours. Similarly, research published in the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health found that regular exercise is associated with greater life satisfaction and overall happiness. People who engaged in higher levels of physical activity reported significantly higher happiness compared to those who exercised less.

While it’s clear that exercise has immense benefits, choosing a life partner solely based on their lifestyle habits may not be the best approach. As the Washington University researchers suggest, marrying a conscientious partner might sound like a path to a rigid and unexciting life. However, having a partner who is both conscientious and practical, as well as one who values a healthy lifestyle, can lead to a more successful career and a longer, healthier life.

So, what’s the best course of action? Instead of trying to change your partner’s habits, focus on how you can be more supportive. You could take the lead in managing household finances, performing more household chores, or handling maintenance and schedules. After all, the most effective way to inspire change is by leading through example.

You could also prioritize exercising together or making healthier eating habits a shared goal. Even if you and your partner don’t do the same workout, being in the same space while exercising can help both of you stay on track. My wife and I work out together often; we may not do the same activities, but being in the same room helps us both remain committed to our fitness goals. Implicit peer pressure can go a long way in maintaining good habits, and it still feels like we’re spending time together.

Ultimately, marrying the right person plays a significant role in leading a successful and fulfilling life, but equally important is being the right person. By being supportive, encouraging, and setting a good example, you can strengthen your relationship in both practical and emotional ways.