Happiness isn’t just a feeling—it’s a science. Decades of global research reveal clear patterns about what truly makes life satisfying, meaningful, and healthy. In this episode of People Need to Know, we explore the latest evidence on human well-being, cutting through myths to highlight what really matters.

We cover:

• Why relationships are the single strongest predictor of long-term happiness and health.

• The three dimensions of happiness—life evaluation, daily emotions, and meaning/purpose—and why each matters.

• How money contributes to well-being, why its impact levels off, and how spending on time, experiences, and generosity pays bigger dividends.

• The role of health behaviors—sleep, exercise, nature, and light exposure—as everyday antidepressants.

• How purpose, autonomy, and competence at work and home drive deeper fulfillment.

• The surprising power of kindness, volunteering, and prosocial acts to boost both personal and community happiness.

• Why attention and time management—from reducing commutes to setting digital boundaries—are crucial for modern well-being.

• The latest insights from psychology and neuroscience on why mindfulness, gratitude, and savoring actually work.

• What societies can do—through trust, freedom, and social support—to make happiness more equal and more accessible for everyone.

• Happiness isn’t a fixed trait—it’s a system of habits, choices, and environments. Tune in to discover how science can help you design a happier, more meaningful life.