While most of us want to have happier and good days, is it possible to have it every day? Apparently, yes, according to science. Scientists in Canada believe they’ve cracked the code for a perfect day— and the answer might surprise you. According to a Mail Online report, the secret to a “perfect day” includes… working less.
What does a perfect day actually look like?
Researchers at the University of British Columbia say happiness isn’t just about how we feel— it’s about how we spend our time. Their study outlines a specific daily schedule that leads to a happier, more fulfilling life. Here’s their ideal formula:
– 6 hours with family
– 2 hours with friends
– 1.5 hours socializing
– 2 hours of exercise
– 1 hour eating and drinking
– A short, 6-hour workday
– Less than 15 minutes of commuting
– And, only 1 hour on digital screens! So if you’ve been doom-scrolling for hours hoping to unwind after a long day, you might be doing just the opposite.
How was the study conducted
Led by social psychologist Dunigan Folk, the research team analyzed data from the American Time Use Surveys (2013 and 2021). These surveys track how Americans spend each hour of the day. Using AI, the researchers identified which activities made people feel like they were having a “better-than-typical” day.
The result? A clear blueprint for how to spend your time more wisely.
The study found that while socialising is important, its benefits can be seen only when done for two hours. Any more than that, and you’re not getting much extra happiness. In fact, that extra time can be better spent exercising which will naturally boost your happiness. The study found that up to five hours of physical activity improved happiness—but anything beyond that showed little to no added benefit.
However, when it comes to spending time with true friends, the more time you spend with them the better as it brings joy. However, spending quality time with family tops the charts, as it is the most important ingredient in a perfect day.
The study also highlighted that having a short working day (up to six hours) is linked to a better day overall. But once you go beyond that, your happiness starts to dip.
Also, short commutes— under 15 minutes— were linked to a small boost in one’s well-being. Why? Maybe because leaving the house provides a mental reset, especially after the isolation many experienced during the pandemic. Also, being in traffic for hours naturally makes one cranky– thus reducing their happiness.
The real secret to happiness: It’s all about balance
Just like most things in life, the recipe for happiness is all about having the right balance in life. As Dr. Folk says, as reported by ET, “By understanding the optimal doses of common activities, we now know more about the recipe for a good day—and by extension, the recipe for a good life.”
However, do note that this research is still in its early stages and hasn’t gone through full peer review yet— but the takeaway is clear: balance matters.
