I just finished reading The Good Life and highly recommend it to anyone who wants to improve their life.
In this book, Robert Waldinger and Marc Schulz, the directors of the Harvard Study of Adult Development, argue that the key to a good life is to juxtapose the importance of solid relationships with the pursuit of happiness and fulfillment.
The study followed the lives of 268 men since they were 18 years old – over 80 years. Waldinger and Schulz found that the strongest predictor of a happy and healthy life is the quality of our relationships. People with strong relationships are more likely to be happy, healthy, and live longer than those with weak relationships.
The authors believe that strong relationships are essential because they give us a sense of belonging, support, and love. They also help us grow, learn, and cope with stress and adversity. Good relationships can also make us healthier, both physically and mentally.
Pursuing happiness and fulfillment is also essential. We all want to feel good and to live a meaningful life. However, Waldinger and Schulz argue that the pursuit of happiness and fulfillment should not come at the expense of our relationships. They believe that the best way to find happiness and fulfillment is to build strong relationships with others.
The authors suggest building solid relationships with your family, friends, and loved ones and also connecting with others who share your interests and passions. By making relationships a priority, you can create a life that is both happy and fulfilling.
How to Build Strong Relationships
Building strong relationships takes time, effort, and communication. Here are a few tips:
Be present. When you're with someone, please give them your full attention. Put away your phone, turn off the TV, and focus on them.
Be honest. Honesty is the foundation of any strong relationship. Be honest with yourself, with your partner, and with your friends.
Be forgiving. Everyone makes mistakes. If someone hurts you, try to forgive them. Forgiveness will help you to move on and strengthen your relationship.
Be supportive. Be there for your partner, your friends, and your family when they need you. Offer them support and encouragement.
Be grateful. Express your gratitude to the people in your life. Let them know how much you appreciate them.
Building strong relationships can be challenging, but it is worth it.