Researchers at Oxford University have studied the main characteristics of people who are satisfied with their lives. A large-scale study involving more than 80,000 people from 76 countries showed that the feeling of happiness does not depend solely on income level or social status.
Medianews.az reports, citing Lent.az, that researchers, while analyzing the participants' answers, paid attention not only to their financial situation but also to behavioral traits and personal values.
As a result, it was determined that people who are more satisfied with their lives tend to exhibit traits such as patience, readiness to take measured risks, trust towards others, importance given to mutual relationships, and a tendency towards altruism (i.e., selfless help to others) more frequently.
One of the most important traits identified was patience. The researchers also found a noticeable connection between the feeling of happiness and the readiness to take risks.
The researchers specifically emphasized the importance of the principle of reciprocity. That is, people who tend to respond to kindness with kindness or react to unfair treatment are more likely to evaluate their quality of life positively.
Furthermore, the study results showed that showing high trust to others and being ready to help others selflessly are also closely related to internal well-being and a sense of happiness. Interestingly, similar patterns were observed in different countries and regions of the world.
According to the authors of the study, the obtained results can be beneficial not only for future scientific research but also in terms of developing social programs aimed at improving people's quality of life through the development of trust, patience, and mutual support in society.