Happiness on a personal level can make any day better and add great value to anyone’s life! But what if happiness was cherished and appreciated not just locally but on an international scale? How could that make changes in life, such as the way the economy works or how societies function?

International Day of Happiness aims to celebrate the happiness that exists all over the world, even if it is measured in different ways. This day is meant to be inspiring to people to spread positivity, whether big or small, with others and encouraging each nation to prioritize the happiness of its citizens.

As one of the key pursuits of human life, it is no surprise that there has been endless philosophizing and discussion on the subject of happiness for thousands of years. For instance, the Ancient Greek philosopher, Aristotle, argued that happiness is the only thing that humans seek “in and of itself.” This idea maintains that all of the other wants and desires that humans pursue ultimately contribute to happiness, making happiness itself the end goal.

And much later, in the 18^th and 19^th centuries, utilitarians such as Jeremy Bentham and John Stuart Mill developed an ethical theory that even saw virtuous acts as those which maximize happiness and decrease suffering. The idea may have been that even acting selflessly was a bit selfish because it made people feel happy!

Now, International Day of Happiness argues that being happy can bring a fairer and more balanced approach to economic growth in particular, such that it foregrounds sustainable development, tackles poverty and increases personal and social well being. But as well as on a societal level, this day can certainly also be used to celebrate happiness that exists on a personal and individual level!

History of International Day of Happiness

International Day of Happiness has a truly global history regarding its creation. Back in 2011, the idea was introduced to the United Nations by the advisor Jayme Illien. Illien also founded the United Nations New Economic Paradigm project and ‘happytalism’, which aim to change the way nations approach economic growth by focusing on ‘happytalism’ over capitalism.

The General Assembly of the United Nations agreed with the proposal and officially founded International Day of Happiness in July of 2012, with the occasion first being observed in 2013. The celebration acknowledges how important and desirable happiness is to people everywhere and how essential it is that happiness is incorporated into public policy.

International Day of Happiness is celebrated and hosted by various organizations, including Action for Happiness, Happinessday.org and the United Nations. Through these websites and via social media, people can share inspirational stories about what makes them happy, how their happiness contributes to those around them and how it can pave the way towards a better future.