The worst time of middle age? When you’re 47.

Researcher discovers a universal slump in life satisfaction.

Image source: National Bureau Of Economic Research, ©2020 David G. Blanchflower/Milan Ilic Photographer/Shutterstock/Big Think
  • In 132 countries, a clear U shape is seen in happiness in the late 40s.
  • The study controls for influencing factors in arriving at its conclusions.
  • Three possible reasons for a post-middle-age return to happiness are suggested.
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A New Year’s resolution to make a difference: Help others.

Charity and volunteering not only benefit the recipient but help you become happier and healthier in the new year.

(Photo: Pxhere)
  • Most New Year's resolutions are self-directed and enjoy a failure rate of about 80 percent.
  • Research has shown that selfless giving can enhance happiness, improve your health, and even extend your life.
  • Resolving to help others can help you keep your resolution this year.
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compassion cognitive science goal-setting happiness health life morality motivation personal growth community

This new research will help you make better food decisions

The key? Focus on flavor.

Joe Raedle/Getty Images

On your busiest, most stressed-out days, you may not be thinking much about what ends up on your lunch or dinner plate.

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food decision-making goal-setting human body personal growth health

8 principles that will make you smarter about money

It's not the act of buying but how you spend money that improves happiness and life satisfaction.

  • To prove money can't buy happiness, people point to millionaires and lottery winners who ruined their lives.
  • Psychological studies have shown that learning how to spend your money can improve overall happiness.
  • We explore eight money-spending principles that research suggests can bolster life satisfaction.
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choice goal-setting finance happiness life money personal growth behavioral economics cognitive science psychology

Can we afford to live longer?

We're living longer than ever, but few of us will save enough to afford this historical boon.

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  • A person reaching 65 today can expect to live into their mid-80s, many into their 90s.
  • A 30-year retirement requires a nest egg of more than $1 million, yet 77 percent of American households fall short of such savings and investments.
  • Experts recommend several strategies for affording a longer life, such as pushing the retirement age back to at least 70.
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finance goal-setting happiness health investment life money security work-life balance