Ways to happiness

How can mankind reach happiness? We can apply a philosophical or social approach to answer this question. Here I leave the first one and stick mostly to the second. I will mention some factors which result in happiness:

First, calmness. Anxiety, worry, depression and other mental tensions get humankind far from being happy. On the other hand, the calmer one feels, the more one can enjoy the surrounding beauties.

Second, tolerance. Modern era has created more cities rather than people remaining in their countryside. Cities have their pros and cons. One of their main disadvantages is that people are more atomized in the cities. Therefore their personal interests grow apart. They seek more beneficial lives and it causes more conflicts. Tolerance is the most useful characteristic for avoiding these conflicts as much as possible. Fewer conflicts will result in more happiness.

Third, dialogue. Misunderstanding is one of those factors which raise conflicts and dialogue is the only way to prevent it. One could say less misunderstanding will heighten the possibility of happiness.

Fourth, compromise. Social contracts like laws and rules from Jean-Jacques Rousseau`s argument need a legitimate and acceptable compromise. A true law will result in more social and personal rights. When one feels that one has an undeniable right, one can count on it and it will result in more social and personal satisfaction which will raise happiness.

Fifth, welfare. Although I do not believe money or possessions can buy happiness, I believe poverty will not cause contentment either. One has to have access to vital needs to live a safe, healthy, and happy life.

Sixth, a meaningful life. Life has to be meaningful for everybody. When I apply the term meaningful it does not refer to a specific ideology or belief. Without it, happiness never deepens.

Seventh, good health. A healthier body can bring happiness and vice versa. Mental and physical health are both important here.

Eighth, joy. Happiness and joy come from the same root. Whatever brings joy will end in happiness. These two are strictly connected.

Ninth, family or friends. Members of family and best friends are one's capital. They play a vital role in one's life particularly in hard times. Their support, their company and their love are exclusive. The idea of having them brings hope and happiness. No matter how far they live from you, what really matters is just this belief that you can rely and count on them.

The ways to happiness could be added, but I think the factors which I mentioned above are the main ones.

The subject –happiness-- will be continued.