Happiness vs. Life Satisfaction

I just took a very short Satisfaction with Life Scale (SWLS) questionnaire online.  I was honest, and it determined that I’m on the border of ‘satisfied’ and ‘extremely satisfied’ with my life.  I rationalized that by deciding one shouldn’t be totally satisfied (i.e., complacent) with their life!  But, I’m definitely happy.  So, this made me contemplate (and look into) Happiness versus over-all Life Satisfaction.

Happiness is a short-term state of mind that can be fleeting as life changes.  It depends on a person's temperament, their circumstances, and the way they react to situations and events. But happiness alone usually doesn’t make for a satisfying and fulfilling life—it’s just one component of the broader concept of life satisfaction. Life satisfaction is more stable than happiness and refers to a longer-term state of contentment and well-being.  

HAPPINESS

I believe we're in charge of our own happiness.  We can “strive” for happiness, but the happiness of our lives depends on the quality of our thoughts.  Much of happiness comes from within, having a positive attitude, a 'half-full' mindset.   

 

The happiest of people don't necessarily have the most of everything or perfect lives, they just make the most of what they do have and what comes their way.  They have gratitude.  And when people are aware of the fortunate aspects of their lives, it offsets the natural tendency to take things for granted, or become dissatisfied.    

 

It’s true, wealth and income contribute to quality of life and happiness factors like health, living conditions, safety, higher education, thus more satisfying and rewarding work, having leisure time, the ability to travel and access to arts and culture.  Most importantly, money provides opportunities and creates choices.  But it does not guarantee happiness.

 

Unfortunately, happiness is susceptible to wishful thinking: I’ll be happy once I fill in the blank.  The thing is, it’s hard to be happy if you won’t let go of the things that make you sad or frustrated.  There will always be someone better looking, smarter, richer, or more successful.  And until you accept this, you can’t be happy.  Pursuing realistic goals will leave you happier with your life and feeling more positive about yourself.  Keep in mind, everyone wants to live on top of the mountain, but all the happiness and growth occurs while you’re climbing it.

 

For the most part, most of us have what we need to be happy, we just need to recognize and appreciate it.  (i.e., If you or your family don’t have your health, nothing else matters.  If you have strong connections with family and friends, that makes you “rich” in relationships.)  The secret is to focus on what you DO have, accept your situation for what it is, and accept yourself for what you are and are not. Live in the here and now. 

 

LIFE SATISFACTION

 

Life satisfaction is inherently subjective. It’s the overall assessment of one’s life—as a whole, at a certain point in time.  It often becomes evident with the perspective and clarity that maturity brings.  If positive, life satisfaction is accompanied by contentment and a sense of well-being. 

Wellness is one component of life satisfaction.  But a dying person might have more life satisfaction than the person who appears to have everything.  Life Satisfaction is based on variables each individual considers most important—even coping with challenges.

Truly contented people put their emphasis on relationships—from intimate to community.  The love and support of family and friends provides emotional security—which is essential for peace of mind.  

 

Finding purpose and meaning boosts fulfillment in life.  Life satisfaction is sometimes dependent on reconciling personal aspirations and actual achievement.  Contented people feel in control of their lives.  They recognize and accept what is and is not within their reach or their control, and they learn to be  flexible.  

 

Life satisfaction usually implies a well-balanced life, free of stress.  Having an ethical framework is essential.  Gratitude improves outlook and fosters contentment and overall life satisfaction.  But sustaining satisfaction often involves continued personal growth, and occasional adjustments to keep values aligned with life experiences and a changing world.