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Happier in Your Later Years

Everyone says your younger years should be the happiest time of your life—you don’t have any responsibilities, all you have to do is go to school and you have the rest of your life ahead of you to pursue your dreams. So why aren't you feeling giddy? 

In a study lead by the University of Chicago, approximately 28,000 people between ages 18 and 88 were surveyed over 30 years about their happiness level. The results showed that people in their 80s are the happiest when compared to the rest of the population. The research also found that one’s happiness increases by about 5% with every 10 years of age.
 
Why does this happen? One aging expert says it’s because older people have lowered expectations and appreciate their achievements in life…or maybe it’s because retirement really is that much fun.
 
If your golden years are decades away, you don’t have to wait to be happier. Remember to do the things you love on a regular basis and you’ll be happier no matter what your age is! [cbsnews.com]

Posted: 4/22/08