What does happiness actually mean? Quite simply: the relationship between hunger and hope. At least that’s what Alphonsus Obayuwana, psychologist and author of the book “The Happiness Formula” claims. He developed the formula to show people what really makes them happy. He considers previous research in this area to be wrong or outdated. For example, in an interview with the Daily Mail, he cites Finland as an example: a country with a high suicide rate, but which often appears high up in happiness rankings.
“The problem with the current questionnaires is that they are very simple and uninformative and rudimentary for something as important as happiness,” the happiness expert told the British newspaper.
A simple formula for happiness
He, on the other hand, has now “discovered a very simple equation that makes it possible for the first time to assign people a numerical happiness value.” The formula is: Hope through hunger equals happiness.
Obayuwana understands hunger to be the longing for five human longings:
Intimacy Trust, nourishment or comfort Information and continuity
To determine the happiness value, the psychologist designed twelve questions, six for hope and six for hunger. You can answer each question with a number between 1 and 8, from “strongly disagree” to “strongly agree”. Write down the value for each question.
Twelve questions as a formula for happiness
The hope questions
In general, I am an optimist. I believe I have something to offer others in this life. In the event of an emergency, I have someone I can count on. When I need answers, I usually manage to find them. Considering the resources I have at my disposal, I’m luckier than many. When I think about my relationship with God, I feel calmer and less afraid.
Note: This word, God, represents Allah, Jehovah, Yahweh, or any other almighty cosmic force or entity.
Now add all the numbers together and the sum is your hope value.
The hunger questions
I’m currently under a lot of stress. I don’t get the respect I deserve. I have no trusted or intimate companion. Not having enough money is a constant worry of mine. I have so many unanswered questions. I’m worried about my future.
Add all the numbers together again and the total will give you your hunger value.
Now divide your hope value by the hunger value. You receive your personal happiness index.
The result
What does that mean? Obayuwana explains: Is the value
higher than 1.0 the respondent is considered “happy person”
lower than 1.0 the respondent is considered “unhappy person”
higher than 4.0 the respondent is considered “(Blooming) personality”
lower than 0.25 the respondent is considered “tired, weak personality”.
How do you become happier?
Happiness is less a question of circumstances and more a question of attitude and behavior – at least that’s what happiness researcher Tobias Esch says. In the FOCUS Gesundheit podcast “Put through its paces” he gives tips on how to achieve happiness.
1. Exercise and relaxation
Esch emphasizes the importance of regular exercise and relaxation for happiness. He recommends 30 minutes of exercise every day and also emphasizes the importance of conscious relaxation, good sleep and conscious nutrition. Studies show that the majority of adults do not get enough sleep.
2. Enjoyment and mindfulness
Esch also emphasizes that enjoyment and mindfulness also contribute to happiness. It’s not just about nutrition, but also about conscious experience and the enjoyment aspect that promotes connection with the present.
3. Happiness and health
The relationship between happiness and health is complex, explains Esch. Chronic illnesses do not necessarily mean dissatisfaction. People aged 60 and over are often particularly satisfied, even though they are faced with health restrictions.
4. Social relationships
Successful social relationships are crucial for happiness. Esch recommends analyzing your own social network and, above all, investing in the relationships that convey love and belonging.