About the Study
The Grant study began in 1938 and examined the lives of over 200 Harvard graduates for many decades. The original researchers felt that medical research was too focused on disease, and designed the study to capture the way a group of promising men managed their lives over a certain period of time. What makes the study special is not only its length, but also that it reveals the variety of factors that can influence happiness.
Findings
Interestingly, the researchers discovered the following:
- It’s not about wealth or fame or working harder and harder. The key takeaway from the study is that good relationships, a supportive environment, meaningful tasks, the opportunity for personal development and a positive workplace culture make us happier and healthier.
- Loneliness is toxic: isolation leads to less happiness, poorer health, earlier cognitive decline and a shorter lifespan.
- Quality over quantity: The number of friends or relationship status alone are not decisive. A life full of conflict is detrimental to health, while good relationships protect it.
- Happy relationships increase the quality of life into old age and reduce the impact of physical pain.
- Secure relationships have a positive effect on memory, while insecurity causes earlier memory loss.
On this International Day of Happiness, the Grant Study reminds us that true happiness is often found in the little things in life: in connecting with others, in a positive environment in the pursuit of personal fulfillment.
Would you like to find out more about the Grant Study? We recommend that you read an interview with the head of the study.
Interview Süddeutsche Zeitung Magazin
Let’s use this knowledge to create a working environment in which everyone can develop to their full potential, lead a fulfilling working life and mutual appreciation is our daily companion! 💼✨
#PEOPLE make it happen
Even in our digital world, nothing beats personal contact. Our experts would be happy to help you.