In my research on healthy aging, I came across an article in The Harvard Gazette called “Good genes are nice but joy is better.” It described an 80 year longitudinal study, started in 1939 with 268 male Harvard graduates and similarly aged men from inner city Boston. The goal was to determine the top predictors for healthy and happy lives. Since the study started it has been expanded to the offspring and spouses of these participants.

Key Findings for Health and Happiness

After decades of research gained from medical tests, questionnaires and interviews, the #1 predictor for health and happiness came down to this: close relationships. According to the study, our satisfaction with these relationships is a better predictor of longevity and happiness than IQ, social class or genes.

A second predictor was finding a way to keep those relationships close during challenging times, without pushing people away.

This “happiness factor” from cherished relationships was shown to help the nervous system relax; enable the brain to stay healthier longer; and reduce both emotional and physical pain.

Beyond Romantic Love

These close relationships went beyond the type of romantic love we often think of on Valentine’s Day. The key differentiator was the quality of the relationship with that other person, whatever the relationship. For example:

Can you be yourself around this them?
Do you feel safe sharing your innermost thoughts?
Can you be vulnerable?

The Top Takeaway

We can be so focused on our healthy lifestyle – getting in one more exercise class or creating that perfect vegetarian meal – that we cut short our time with loved ones. This week, take a few minutes to reach out to someone you are close to. Share how they contribute to your health and happiness.