Family Matters

Thrive! by Dan Buettner is another great read.  This is the author who traveled the world inspired by "longevity cultures" and wrote Blue Zones.  Thrive! is also a collection of stories from around the globe - but with a focus on happiness.  A natural sequel to the first book as Buettner found one of the keys to longevity being happiness.

In the discussion of Singapore, one of the happiest nations on earth, Buettner discusses the concept of family.  This is one that is near and dear to my heart as I am from a large family genetically (a true blessing!) and  a large "family" locally (another blessing).  In Singapore, "the term family includes not only those genetically related to each other but also friends and neighbors.  This extended support system allows Singaporeans to thrive and care for one another in unique, encouraging ways."  Yes!  Here is a culture that embraces that idea.  And look - they turn out to rank in the top 5 happiness centers of the world!

This is just what we need.  The world around us shares natural disasters, pollution, diseases, escalating health care costs, a ridiculous dependency on oil, and expanding waist lines.  I don't need to tell you the stressful, frustrating feelings that accompany this reality.  I will tell you that research supports a sound support system among the top coping mechanisms for stressful times.  Reach out to your family.  Maybe yours doesn't include a spouse and children, several brothers (and brother-in-law) a sister (and sisters-in-law), parents, grandparents, aunts, uncles, cousins and nieces and nephews (whew!) like mine does.  But I'm sure, like mine, it includes close friends, co-workers, "almost" brothers, "should've been" cousins, wise elderly companions and sage advisors.  In a world of "what-next?", a robust circle of friends may be our best strategy.  I'd be willing to bet that the people of Haiti and the people of Japan have turned to their friends a few times here and there...

Why wait for a crisis to find your "family" when your family will bring you happiness?  Support others, be supported - and we, too, can Thrive!