It’s International Day of Happiness today, for those who didn't know, a day focused on international collective wellbeing and unification through joy.
The annual event is a project from the United Nations in the hope of finding a happier, more compassionate world in one currently polluted by crisis, fear and hate.
The campaign is coordinated by Action For Happiness, a not-for-profit movement that is made up of people from 160 countries.
International Day of Happiness describes the purpose of its mission as boosting wellbeing.
“With our world facing unprecedented challenges, wellbeing matters more than ever.
“When we choose to take action to help others, they benefit, we benefit and we set an example of kindness that can ripple out into the world too.”
The organisation says that the world has moved forward and views have changed - economic growth isn't the only thing that matters any more. Instead ‘progress’ can now also be measured through increasing human happiness and wellbeing.
The history of the International Day of Happiness
In 2011, the UN general assembly made happiness a ‘fundamental human goal’ and adopted it as a formal resolution.
It called for “a more inclusive, equitable and balanced approach to economic growth that promotes the happiness and well-being of all peoples”.
The following year, in 2012, the inaugural UN Conference on Happiness established a fixed date for the day - it was observed officially for the first time the following year, in 2013.
March 20 has been deemed the official date for the annual event, with all of the 193 member countries of UN approving the idea and agreeing that more should be done to prioritise happiness.
The day centres on a belief that “we are a social species and we thrive when we’re closely connected to others”.
Co-founder and Director of Action for Happiness, Dr Mark Williamson, said in 2015: “This International Day of Happiness is more than just a fun celebration, it also reminds us all that the world is a better place when we connect with and care about the people around us.”
In the past, events have focused on different ways of looking at happiness.
In 2014, the campaign focused on reclaiming personal happiness as opposed to the commercial image of happiness we all get blasted with on a daily basis.
To do this, the campaign asked people to share their images of what makes them happy - by sharing pictures of peoples’ authentic happiness, it was hoped that people can get closer to it once again.
Ways to help with International Day of Happiness
The International Day of Happiness’s official page has suggested things people can do to help the cause and, hopefully, spread some happiness.
They say you can share positive messages: “Spread ideas that promote peace, kindness and understanding, online and in real life.”
Connect with people: “Reach out to people who you know are connected to a crisis and offer your care and support.”
Give directly: “Donate to causes working on the front line of a crisis or find a way to help with local efforts.”
How are you celebrating International Day of Happiness? Let us know in the comments below
