Did you know that the single biggest determiner of our resilience and happiness is the quality of our relationships?

The Impact of Relationships on Happiness

The quality of our relationships has a significant impact on our happiness. An 85 year long study conducted by Harvard University has found that close relationships are key to happiness and health, while loneliness and lack of social connections can be detrimental to our overall well-being.

Our relationships shape our happiness, and therefore our resilience, in profound ways.

Why Do We Need Others To Be Happy?

Humans are social beings by nature, and our need for connection and belonging is deeply ingrained. Numerous studies have shown that positive social interactions release oxytocin, a hormone that promotes feelings of trust and bonding.

When we have meaningful connections with others, we experience greater happiness and fulfillment. We understand ourselves through our relationships with others, and we often need others to feel a sense of belonging and purpose.

Quality Over Quantity

It’s not about the number of friends or acquaintances we have, but the depth and authenticity of our connections.

A study published in the Journal of Social and Personal Relationships found that individuals with a few close, supportive relationships experience greater happiness and psychological well-being. It’s better to have a small circle of trusted friends than a large network of superficial connections.

You Live Longer When You Have Strong Relationships

Having strong relationships not only enhances our happiness but also increases our lifespan. A study conducted by Brigham Young University found that social isolation and loneliness can be as harmful to our health as smoking 15 cigarettes a day.

On the other hand, people with strong social connections have a 50% higher likelihood of living longer. People in long term relationships tend to live longer than single people too; looking after each other, even on a practical level, can make a difference to our stress levels.

What Do We Mean By Quality Relationships?

Quality relationships are characterised by mutual trust, respect, and support – that balance of mutual support is important. One way relationships are not quality; they sometimes have a purpose, but will not usually last or provide genuine value to either person.

Quality relationships provide a safe space for vulnerability and emotional intimacy. Not everyone will express their emotional intimacy in the same way, but it’s about trusting that the other person won’t reject you when you are imperfect or express some needs. We should feel like we can express our true self to those close to us.

Quality relationships involve active listening, empathy, and open communication. This can be very challenging to people who are more reserved, or unwilling to open up. And for those people who are caught up in their own drama or needing to be the centre of attention all the time… they will rarely have quality relationships because they don’t invest in other people.

Quality relationships are built on shared values, common interests, and a sense of belonging. When you meet that person, do you feel like you are safe? Or are you always on your guard?

Quality relationships are about surrounding yourself with people who uplift and inspire you, and who genuinely care about your well-being.

The Power of Positive Interactions

Positive interactions with others have a profound impact on our happiness. Acts of kindness, expressing gratitude, and offering support not only benefit the recipient but also enhance our own well-being.

Research has shown that engaging in positive social interactions releases feel-good hormones and boosts our mood. Simple acts of kindness, such as a smile or a kind word, can create a ripple effect of positivity and contribute to our overall happiness. Other people remind us that we matter and we are alive.

This is where quality relationships come in – they provide a constant source of positive interactions that we believe are genuine.

What If I Don’t Have Quality Relationships?

You can be happy even if you don’t have quality relationships. It’s important to remember that happiness is an inside job. You can cultivate happiness by practicing self-care, engaging in activities that bring you joy, and finding meaning in your life.

Not everyone needs other people to be happy – some people are perfectly content with their own company. However, if you feel lonely or isolated, it’s important to reach out and connect with others.