A new study out of UV Amsterdam reveals that certain genes control up to 50 percent of an individual’s happiness. But many experts agree that nearly 40 percent of our remaining happiness is a direct result of free will expressed through choices and actions. For example, some people may choose to spend time with family and friends, to volunteer for a worthy cause, or pursue physical activities that contribute to a sense of happiness and satisfaction. The common factor in most of these choices is the connection with people that creates groups or social networks. In part, it seems that we choose to participate in group activities to increase feelings of happiness.
Can We Design for Happiness in the Workplace?