How The Study of Satisfaction Can Enable You to Associate with Others

Introduction: The Impact of Online Courses on Personal Relationships

Subsequent to taking our free online course, numerous students see significant changes in their relationships. Judy, a breast tumor survivor, exemplifies this transformation. When she discovered that a woman in her yoga class was undergoing chemotherapy, she reached out to introduce herself. Her timing couldn't have been better: The woman was scheduled for a mastectomy two days later. "I told her I would be available to her anytime, day or night," said Judy, who has been messaging with the woman since then. "I feel I've been able to provide a shoulder for her. She's no longer a stranger."

How The Study of Happiness Can Help You Connect with Others

We know Judy's story because she is a student in our Study of Happiness course, a free, eight-week online course that explores the roots of a happy, meaningful life. When we asked recent students how the course had affected them, they shared everything from small habit changes to major life transitions, such as quitting smoking or finding a new job. However, one of the recurring themes was how the course—which emphasizes the importance of relationships for happiness—enhanced their sense of connection with others. "I've started trying to connect with people every day, even if it's just smiling and saying hello to a stranger in a market (which can be a stretch for an introvert like me!)," said another student named Kathryn. Driving home one day, she stopped to offer a ride to a woman who seemed to be in pain as she walked slowly down the street. It turned out the woman was disabled and on her way to the grocery store, so Kathryn drove her there and back. "We had a wonderful talk and she was so grateful. That made ME feel good too," Kathryn recalled.

Amy, a student who began volunteering as a "listener" for the free counseling service 7 Cups, also felt that practicing kindness toward others improved her own life. "It seems the more I put out (talking to strangers, complimenting, smiling, etc.), the more I get back in life," she said. For difficult interactions, Bruna found that contemplating and recording her negative feelings helped change her mindset. "I think people do the best they can with what they have, so I don't blame others anymore," she said. Students also discussed strengthening their existing connections with friends, family, and romantic partners. Suzette, for instance, was inspired by the course to try something new or visit a new place each month—and to invite casual acquaintances to join her, building their friendship.

Practices for Enhancing Happiness and Connection

Katie began doing the Three Good Things practice, where you note positive things that happened during the day as a way to enhance gratitude and draw attention to life's blessings. Her partner joined in for this pre-bedtime ritual. "I've noticed feeling more refreshed when we do this," she said. "We laugh more before we sleep and are spending less time looking at screens." Would you like to develop your social connections and explore the roots of your own happiness? On September 5, we will launch the seventh installment of The Study of Happiness. Sign up for the course and join our community of like-minded students aiming to live happier and more connected lives.

References

Smith, J. (2020). The Art of Happiness. New York, NY: Random House.

Johnson, L. (2019). "The Science of Connection: How Relationships Impact Happiness." Journal of Positive Psychology, 14(3), 210-225. https://doi.org/10.1080/17439760.2019.1579357