Marie Claire News

Sunday 5 July

CELEBRITY STYLE SPY: See all the latest celeb photos Stars animation


How would you rate your happiness?

Smile

Putting a figure on happiness is a difficult thing to do, but a new study shows most Britons rate their happiness at 7.8 on a scale of one to 10.

Although this puts us on the same level as the French or Belgians, we are still lagging behind many countries, particularly those in Northern Europe.

Our Irish neighbours gave themselves 8, while the Danes are the happiest people in Europe, with a score of 8.5.

The Bulgarians came last in the survey with a rating 5.8 out of 10, reports The Telegraph.

The average European happiness was 7.5 – so at least we're better than average!

The Quality of Life poll was carried out for the European Foundation for the Improvement of Living and Working Conditions. More than 35,000 Europeans over 18 were interviewed for the survey.

Bulgaria's low happiness rating was no surprise to the foundation.

'Well-being in the former socialist countries varies greatly between social and demographic groups. There are marked disadvantages associated with low income, and older people are more likely to report dissatisfaction with their situation,' said Eurofound director Jorma Karppinen.

The survey also revealed that health and family were the most important factors in quality of life for Europeans.

'Family remains for most people the first port of call for support in emergencies, as well as for child and elder care,' said the report.

How would you rate your happiness levels? What do you think makes you happy? Tell us below!

 

CLICK HERE FOR MORE HEALTH NEWS!

Friday 21 November 2008


Have your say ...

Add your own comment

I had to think about the rating but not about the happiness - the talkback host last night brought it up as a topic. Despite the possibility of losing my house in a dodgy investment deal, at the moment I would rate my happiness as 10/10. I work with dogs and love my business, I've distanced myself from people who upset me, and I don't need a lot of material possessions. I think happiness is all about taking control of your life and knowing yourself.
Comment by Anna on November 22 22:50

Rate this ...

Rate this content

Thanks, your rating has been counted!

  • Current rating:
  • 4.5/5



August subscription offer