Big Think

What 85 years of research says is the real key to happiness | Robert Waldinger: Full Interview

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Jul 28, 2025
In this insightful discussion, Robert Waldinger, a Harvard psychiatrist and director of the Harvard Study of Adult Development, shares his findings on happiness from an 85-year-long research project. He reveals that relationships are the true key to lasting happiness, surpassing wealth and fame. Waldinger emphasizes that nurturing social connections and understanding childhood impacts can enhance well-being. He also tackles loneliness as a growing epidemic and suggests mindfulness and community engagement as vital strategies for building a fulfilling life.
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ANECDOTE

Harvard's 85-Year Life Study

  • The Harvard Study of Adult Development started in 1938 and tracked 724 men from youth to old age.
  • It uniquely combines psychological and biological data over eight decades to understand what makes a good life.
INSIGHT

Relationships Trump Wealth

  • Investing in warm, supportive relationships is the best predictor of long-term happiness and health.
  • Wealth, fame, or success do not directly boost well-being as relationships do.
INSIGHT

Happiness Has 40% Room to Grow

  • Happiness is about 50% genetic, 10% life circumstances, and 40% within our control.
  • We can increase happiness by actively creating the right conditions in our lives.
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