Summary

  • A poll of 2,000 adults identified the top 20 things that bring feelings of happiness and positivity.

  • The survey was commissioned by the cheese company Babybel.

  • Good night’s sleep and sunny blue sky ranked as the top two factors for feeling good.

  • 45% of respondents mentioned that receiving a nice compliment can significantly boost their mood.

  • Laughing until tears flowed was also noted as a high scorer in generating positive emotions.

  • On average, respondents experienced uplifting moments three times a day and felt good about their day four times out of seven in a typical week.

  • However, 83% actively avoid negative stories on social media and TV to prevent feeling emotionally drained.

  • 68% of those polled believe happiness is contagious, and over a third make an effort to spread positivity.

  • Only 24% allocate regular time for activities that personally bring them happiness.

  • Many of the top 20 happiness-inducing activities are low-cost or free, emphasizing the link between feeling good and doing good.

TOP 20 THINGS THAT MAKE US FEEL GOOD

  1. A good night’s sleep

  2. A sunny blue sky

  3. Summer

  4. Receiving a compliment or praise

  5. Booking a holiday

  6. Crying with laughter

  7. Getting a quiet moment to yourself

  8. Eating your favorite snack

  9. Pets being happy to see you

  10. Looking back at old photographs

  11. Finishing a great book

  12. Helping an elderly person with something

  13. Finishing a workout

  14. Hearing children really belly-laughing

  15. Finding a parking space when it’s busy

  16. A newly-cleaned car

  17. When your football or other sports team wins

  18. A heart-to-heart with a loved one

  19. Volunteering or helping others

  20. Finding out your children have done well at school