20 March: International Day of Happiness

OV Digital Desk
4 Min Read
20 March: International Day of Happiness

International Day of Happiness is an annual day celebrated on 20 March every year. It is aimed to recognize the importance of happiness in the lives of people around the world. In 2015, the UN launched the 17 Sustainable Development Goals, which seek to end povertyreduce inequality, and protect our planet – three key aspects that lead to well-being and happiness.

The United Nations invites each person of any age, plus every classroom, business, and government to join in the celebration of the International Day of Happiness.

The ten Steps to Global Happiness are:
  1. Tell Everyone About The International Day Of Happiness
  2. Do What Makes You Happy
  3. Virtually Attend A World Happiness Week Event
  4. Give And Spread Happiness To Others
  5. Celebrate Your Own Event & Let The World Know
  6. Share What Makes You Happy On Social Media
  7. Promote The United Nations’ “Happiness Resolutions”
  8. Advance The United Nations Global Goals For Sustainable Development
  9. Enjoy Nature And The Environment
  10. Spread And Adopt Happytalism As A New Human Development System
International Day of Happiness: History

The General Assembly of the United Nations in its resolution 66/281 of 12 July 2012 proclaimed 20 March the International Day of Happiness, recognizing the relevance of happiness and well-being as universal goals and aspirations in the lives of human beings around the world and the importance of their recognition in public policy objectives. It also recognized the need for a more inclusive, equitable and balanced approach to economic growth that promotes sustainable development, poverty eradication, happiness, and the well-being of all peoples.

The resolution was initiated by Bhutan, a country that recognized the value of national happiness over national income since the early 1970s and famously adopted the goal of Gross National Happiness over Gross National Product. It also hosted a High-Level Meeting on “Happiness and Well-Being: Defining a New Economic Paradigm” during the sixty-sixth session of the General Assembly.

World Happiness Report

The 10th annual edition of the World Happiness Report, released on 18 March 2022, reveals a bright light in dark times. The pandemic brought not only pain and suffering, but also an increase in social support and benevolence.

The 2023 World Happiness Report will be launched on Monday, March 20, 2023, at 12:00 PM EDT.

International Day of Happiness: Significance

Happiness is essential for our mental and physical well-being. Research has shown that happy people have better relationships, are more successful in their careers, and live longer than those who are unhappy. The International Day of Happiness provides an opportunity to reflect on what makes us happy and to consider the importance of happiness in our lives.

The International Day of Happiness encourages people around the world to take action to promote happiness in their communities. This can be achieved through simple acts of kindness, volunteering, or supporting local initiatives that promote well-being. The day is also an opportunity for governments and organizations to take action to improve the happiness and well-being of their citizens and employees.

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