According to psychology, we are happiest at this time of day.
Have you ever wondered what your happiest hour of the day is? Maybe it’s when you wake up, when the day begins full of possibilities. Or perhaps when work is over and it’s time to switch off. Is this the moment when you feel free and can enjoy what you really like?
Well, a team of researchers has set to work to find out what that magical moment is when most people feel their happiest. And the results, although not final, are very interesting.
Happy hour: why at 19:00?
Study Personality Journalheld in 20 countries and with more than 5,000 participants, it found the best time of day. In particular, all indications are that most people feel happiest around 7:00 pm. Scientists are not talking about something magical in itself, but about what we usually do at this time.
At 7:00 p.m., the workday is over for many and it’s time to devote themselves to what they enjoy most. Exercise, spend time with friends or family, or simply relax after a busy day.
The study suggests that it’s not so much the time itself, but what typically happens during that time. In general, this is the time of day when we usually do what we enjoy without the obligations and stress of work. By freeing ourselves from work obligations, we can devote ourselves to what truly fulfills us.
What makes us happy: activities and social connections
It was found that negative feelings tend to decrease around midnight, suggesting that although days begin with stress, the tension dissipates as the day progresses. The fact is, when we dedicate ourselves to doing things we enjoy, be it reading, walking or exercising, stress decreases and well-being takes over.
Exercise is key not only because it helps us switch off, but because it also triggers the release of hormones such as endorphins, which are associated with happiness. And if we share this with others, the effect will be even more positive. An active social life has been proven to promote a more optimistic mood and lead to a more fulfilling life.
So, if you’ve ever wondered why you feel happier at 7 pm, the answer is simple. This is the perfect time to do something you really enjoy. And most importantly, enjoy it with the people you love the most.