The Global Flourishing Study surveyed 200,000 adults over five years across 22 countries in hopes of higher understanding what results in a more satisfying life. Surprisingly, the study revealed that countries with higher GDP often had lower “composite flourishing” scores. These scores measure flourishing in self-rated happiness, health, meaning, character, relationships, and financial security.
Shockingly, middle and low-income countries corresponding to Mexico and Kenya, with a per capita GDP of under $1,200, have higher composite scores than richer nations corresponding to the US, Sweden, Germany, and more! Money is just not the trail to happiness. These poorer nations rating lower on financial security, education, and life evaluation, but they make up for this in positive emotions, feeling a way of meaning and purpose of their lives, character and virtue, social connection, and relationships.
Interestingly, the items rated higher in these less affluent nations are all ideals God’s word points us to live our lives for. God says rejoice with him (Philippians 4:4). He desires that our lives be covered in positive emotions, not weighed by constant stress. Amazingly, this survey exposes the reality that even with less financial security, there may be space for joy. The Bible teaches that gathering and living in community is important to our faith and well-being (Hebrews 10:24-25). He calls us to live with the fruits of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22-23). Following Jesus is a fast approach to a flourishing life!
Japan had certainly one of the bottom mean scores for flourishing despite its high GDP and long life expectancy, but its more material and humanistic culture distracts from the things in life that really bring contentment. The report clarifies that the countries with probably the most money and longevity have achieved these items, but have given up much of what constitutes a good life.
Photo Credit: ©Unsplash/Sharon McCutcheon
