I have recently read an article about Jung’s Five Pillars of Good Life. He was a Swiss psychiatrist and psychoanalyst who founded analytical psychology. He was born in 1875 and died at age 85 in 1961. I believe that his pillars are valid even now.

Good physical and mental health

Jung believed that getting happier required soundness of mind and body. His thesis is supported by plenty of research. Physical health plays a significant role in our ability to enjoy life and participate in the activities that bring us joy. Chronic health issues, on the other hand, can limit our mobility, induce pain, and cause a range of other problems that can severely affect our mood and overall outlook on life. Therefore, taking care of our physical health is an essential step towards improving our happiness.

Similarly, good mental health is crucial for maintaining high levels of happiness. Mental health issues such as depression and anxiety can cloud our thought processes, affect our ability to connect with others, and generally decrease our quality of life. Conversely, individuals with good mental health are generally better equipped to handle life's challenges, build and maintain relationships, and pursue their goals - all of which contribute to a sense of happiness.

Moreover, there is a profound interplay between physical and mental health. Physical ailments can lead to mental distress and vice versa.

Good personal and intimate relations, such as those of marriage, family, and friendships

These relationships, be they personal or intimate, such as marriage, family, and friendships, provide an emotional anchor and a sense of belonging and often lead to experiences that bring immense joy and satisfaction.

Marriage, an institution often viewed as a cornerstone of society, can offer much more than just companionship. A strong marital relationship can provide a deep sense of understanding, shared experiences, and emotional resonance that is hard to find elsewhere. It can be a partnership that helps in personal growth and mutual support and can imbue life with an added layer of fulfilment and purpose. The joys of shared dreams, the solace in shared sorrows, and the exhilaration in shared victories all make the marital bond a significant contributor to a good life.

Family relationships, too, are paramount to happiness. They provide a sense of belonging and mutual support that is often unconditional and unwavering. The familial bond is one of the first relationships we form and one that continues to impact us throughout our lives. Within the family, we learn the basics of social interactions, love, trust, and support. The lessons we learn, the memories we create, and the bonds we form within our family can be a constant source of joy, comfort, and satisfaction.

On the other hand, friendships provide opportunities for different shared experiences. Friends, they say, are the family we choose. Indeed, friendships can offer a unique blend of companionship, shared interests, mutual respect, and emotional support. The fun-filled outings, the late-night conversations, the shared hobbies, the mutual support in times of need, and above all, the sense of understanding and acceptance that friends provide can greatly enhance our happiness and contribute to a fulfilling life.

Seeing beauty in art and nature

The act of appreciating beauty invites us to pause and soak in the world around us. It compels us to step away from our daily grind and experience the joy of simply being. Whether we're admiring the intricate details of artwork or marvelling at a stunning sunset, these moments of beauty provide a respite from the mundanity and stress of life, allowing us to recharge and find joy in the present moment.

A deep appreciation for beauty in art and nature also fosters mindfulness—a state of active, open attention to the present. When we fully immerse ourselves in the experience of witnessing beauty, we are drawn into the now. We are not thinking about the past or worrying about the future; we are present, engaged in the act of appreciating the beauty around us.

Moreover, the beauty of art and nature can also serve as a source of inspiration. It can spark creativity, stimulate new ideas, and even ignite a sense of wonder and curiosity. Exposing ourselves to various forms of beauty can broaden our perspectives, enhance our understanding of the world, and enrich our personal and professional lives.

A reasonable standard of living and satisfactory work

Employment provides us with the necessary resources to meet our basic needs and contributes to our sense of identity and purpose. It offers opportunities for personal growth, skill development, and social interaction. A satisfactory job can enhance our self-esteem, provide a sense of achievement, and contribute to our social status.

On the other hand, a reasonable standard of living allows us to enjoy life's pleasures and gives us the freedom to pursue our interests and hobbies. It affords us the luxury of time and space to relax, rejuvenate, and spend quality time with our loved ones. It also gives us access to good quality education, healthcare, and other essential services that significantly improve our quality of life.

However, it's important to note that a high standard of living and a high-paying job do not necessarily equate to happiness. Beyond a certain point, additional income and material possessions do not contribute to greater happiness. Moreover, excessive work can lead to stress, burnout, and many other problems. Therefore, it's crucial to balance work and leisure and ensure that our work and living conditions contribute to, rather than detract from, our overall well-being.

A philosophical or religious outlook that fosters resilience

A philosophical view or spiritual belief system can provide a framework for understanding the world and our place in it. This can encourage a sense of purpose and meaning, both of which are important elements of happiness.

Such outlooks often include teachings on how to cope with adversity, thus fostering resilience. They offer guidance on finding peace amidst chaos, hope in despair, and strength in times of weakness. They remind us of the impermanence of life's hardships, encourage acceptance, and inspire a positive attitude.

Additionally, many philosophies or religions promote the practice of gratitude, forgiveness, and compassion, which are known to enhance happiness. They encourage introspection and self-improvement, further contributing to personal growth and well-being.

By providing a sense of connection to something greater than ourselves, philosophical or religious outlooks can also foster a sense of belonging and universal love, enhancing our social relationships and overall happiness.

These days, we are more than ever glued to screens, and we spend more and more time using these devices. This can lead to less time spent on developing meaningful relationships, enjoying nature and art around us, preventing us from exercising, and leading to poorer physical and mental health. So, if you would like to progress towards your happiness and better health, ditch your devices as much as possible and enjoy the people and nature around you.