Operational happiness is something that can be measured. For example, how many times a person laughs may be seen as a way to measure a person's happiness during a conversation. Although this is not a definitive indicator for actual happiness, it can be for operational happiness. In the United States for example, happiness is measured by financial success and having a spouse and children. When people are not in debt, have money to buy the things they need and want, and have a successful marriage with a child or two, which is America's idea of happiness. Income level, debt or lack thereof, and marriage and children can measure this of course. This is the individual measurement of operational happiness.
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A country's entire measure of operational happiness could also follow along the same lines. Zero or little debt, a stable and updated infrastructure and a strong middle class. Countries like Norway for example, are considered "happy countries" because people receive extended paid leaves, the country is experiencing a surplus, and very few people are in debt. In fact, many Norwegians are saving money in case of harder times in the future.
Why are these measures of happiness considered such? Looking at the individual aspect of it, money brings a lot of opportunity for enjoyment and socialization. Humans are social creatures and most of the human population desires...
When a person has money and success, that person is invited to or experiences a better social circle. This social circle has more physically attractive people in it, driven people, and people that have purpose and hobbies in life. Of course, that is not true for everyone that has money, but it is more common in these income levels.
When one has less money, they are subjected to the experience of individuals that may not be so driven, may need someone to rely on, and may exhibit signs of mental illness. Lack of money promotes dependence and helplessness in people. When a person is desperate and cannot pay their bills, they are more inclined to express their suffering in negative ways. This often leads to turbulent relationships and mental disorders. When a person has financial stability that does not happen as frequently.
People with no debt have the relief of not worrying about extra bills. They can spend their money on things that relieve stress instead of things that promote it. They may often eat healthier and exercise more. Physical attractiveness by society's standards, relies on a certain level of fitness and body fat percentage. Those with more money can afford going to the gym and dedicating personal time into looking good. Forming a good relationship involves finding a healthy person and having money gives one options. Therefore,…
