Discover How the Five L’s Boost Your Social Fitness – And Why it Matters
In 1938, Harvard researchers began an ambitious project to uncover the secrets to a happy life. Eighty-five years and 724 participants later, the answer is more straightforward than ever: it’s all about our relationships. This long-standing study emphasizes that the key to happiness, health, and longevity lies in what they term “social fitness.”
I’ve lived this truth through my 36-year marriage. My husband and I met on a blind date in college and married at graduation. Since then, our journey has been filled with three children, dual careers, one loyal dog, and the joy of a grandson. Reflecting on our decades together, I’ve often shared that the secret to our enduring partnership is to “Live, Love, Learn, Laugh, and Love some more.” Each of these elements mirrors the vital components of maintaining solid relationships:
- Live: Sharing your life with someone creates a foundation of trust and mutual support. For us, living together has meant intertwining our dreams, challenges, and everyday moments, creating a shared life that’s richer than either of us could have built alone.
- Love: Declaring and reaffirming love has been our anchor through all seasons. It’s about more than feelings; it’s a commitment to stand by each other, come what may.
- Learn: Life is full of ups and downs. With each challenge, we’ve learned more about ourselves and each other. These lessons are the stepping stones of our relationship, helping us to grow and adapt.
- Laugh: Humor brings lightness into our lives. It’s the laughter we share that helps us overcome the difficulties and makes the good times even brighter.
- Love Some More: Love is an ongoing journey, not a destination. It requires nurturing, patience, and the willingness to give unconditionally and without end.
This philosophy aligns beautifully with the findings from Harvard’s study, affirming that nurturing our relationships is beneficial and essential. It’s like going to the gym for your connections—regularly investing time and emotional energy to ensure these bonds grow more robust and resilient.
By embracing these practices, we enrich our own lives and contribute to a legacy of love and happiness for those around us. So, whether it’s with a partner, friends, or family, remember: the investment you make in your relationships is the investment you make in your happiness.
Today and all days, I hope you live, love, learn, laugh and love some more. Enjoy exploring our two links, and please comment with your thoughts on what makes for happy, long-held relationships.
Two Links Du Jour:
1. An 85-year Harvard study found the No. 1 thing that makes us happy in life: It helps us ‘live longer’
2. Building a Happy, Healthy Relationship That Lasts: Keys to Enduring Love
Two Minutes Du Jour 