Plan a Trip: It Helps Even if You Don't Actually Take One



Course: Scientifically proven ways to be happier


Timing:Once

Description:

As opposed to actually taking a holiday, simply planning a vacation or break from work can improve our happiness. A study published in the journal Applied Research in Quality of Lifeshowed that the highest spike in happiness came during the planning stage of a vacation as people enjoy the sense of anticipation:

In the study, the effect of vacation anticipation boosted happiness for eight weeks. After the vacation, happiness quickly dropped back to baseline levels for most people.

Shawn Achor has some info for us on this point, as well:

One study found that people who just thought about watching their favorite movie actually raised their endorphin levels by 27 percent.

If you can't take the time for a vacation right now, or even a night out with friends, put something on the calendar--even if it's a month or a year down the road. Then, whenever you need a boost of happiness, remind yourself about it.


Tags: trip, plan




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Adam Health care

Had a wonderful trip... Well planned.. clubbing.. adventure.. a 10 on 10 trip!! Would cherish it for years...

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Adam Health care

Holidays... Planned a trip with my buddies..San Diego....

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Lewis C Dsafsf

Wow.... I was wonder this.. then atlast thought of googling it.. Here's a study that I came across. Sharing it with you. Now I am pretty convinced and motivated to go it.. this week only.

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