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There’s nothing better than appreciating the smaller things in life. Getting a fresh haircut. The perfect spring day. Getting together with your friends and family and having a great time. While there are countless other ‘small’ things we can all appreciate that make us happy, our home state may also contribute to our positive outlook. Gallup-Healthway’s new report shares which states are the happiest and healthiest based on the following criteria:
Purpose: liking what you do each day and being motivated to achieve your goals
Social: having supportive relationships and love in your life
Financial: managing your economic life to reduce stress and increase security
Community: liking where you live, feeling safe and having pride in your community
Physical: having good health and enough energy to get things done daily
These are the states that top the list:
1. Hawaii
2. Alaska
3. South Dakota
4. Maine
5. Colorado
6. Vermont
7. Arizona
8. Montana
9. Minnesota
10. Texas
Just because you don’t live in one of these states, though, doesn’t mean there isn’t plenty of positive news from their findings. The survey also showed that compared to a few years ago, as of 2016, 55.4% of Americans are thriving (compared to 48.9% in 2008)!
And in terms of physical health? The smoking rate has decreased from 21.1% in 2008 to 18.0%, and people are exercising more and more. In other (good) news, research found that the US is experiencing the greatest numbers of Americans covered by health insurance. Seems like Americans are on the right track, regarding mind, body and soul.
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A 78-Year Harvard Study Reveals the Secret to Happiness
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6 Scientific Facts That Link Happiness with Good Health
