NATIVEUK.COM LESSONS
March 20th • Well-being & Psychology
International Day of Happiness
A day recognised by the United Nations to acknowledge the importance of happiness and well-being as universal goals for all human beings. In a world increasingly focused on economic growth and extreme productivity, the pursuit of genuine joy can often feel like a secondary concern. This lesson explores the science of happiness, whether governments can actually make their citizens happy, and how the definition of a well-lived life varies across different cultures.
Speaking Discussion
- What do you think is the biggest misconception people have about what actually makes them happy? Is it money, status, or something else?
- Can happiness be measured objectively by scientists, or is it too personal and subjective to track on a global scale?
- Is it a government's responsibility to ensure the happiness of its citizens, or should they only focus on safety and the economy?
- How has social media changed our perception of 'other people's happiness'? Does it make us more or less content with our own lives?
- In your opinion, is it possible to be truly happy without being successful in a traditional career or financial sense?
- How does your own culture define success and joy? Are there specific traditions or values that prioritise well-being over work?
- Do you believe that humans have a natural baseline of happiness that we always return to regardless of positive or negative life events?
Activity 1: The joy Consultant
The Task: You are a Well-being Expert hired by a high-stress company. Propose 3 simple changes to the office environment or schedule that would increase employee happiness without costing any money.
from the sidebar.
Activity 2: Rapid Fire Sentences
Complete the sentence and justify it in 20 seconds.
- "The most joyful moment of my week is usually..."
- "I think the secret to happiness is..."
- "In my opinion, the unhappiest people are those who..."