Men are generally happier in life than women, new research has revealed. A detailed study into 12 aspects of modern life found men experience higher levels of happiness in seven of them, including salary, appearance and body shape.
Women’s scores were higher than men in the love life, family life and sex life categories.
Researchers also revealed that, overall, the average adult rates their current happiness level at an encouraging 64%.
The study also found the typical woman’s happiness scored highly in general health and their living location.
Other areas in which men emerged as happier than the opposite sex included career prospects, ‘how other people see you’, finances and job security.
The nation’s mood emerged amid a detailed study which initially asked people to opt for ‘cup half full’ or ‘cup half empty’, and then examined the reasoning behind their decision.
And the results settled the age old debate around the popular saying, with six in ten people claiming they adopt a positive outlook overall.
The biggest barrier to feeling content in day to day life was money worries, which affected 46% of respondents.
In fact, it would take just €155 extra a month for the average person to make ends meet and dramatically improve their overall happiness – proving that it is not just a big windfall that would help increase the average person’s outlook on life but in fact a relatively modest sum.
Eating a better diet, a job that is more satisfying and finally shaking a long-term injury or illness all featured in the top 10 wishes for a brighter outlook.
Married people rating significantly happier than singles in almost all categories.
When looking forwards the study was split 50/50 between those who thought they had good reason to be positive and those searching for reasons to be optimistic about their life.
TOP 10 THINGS WHICH INCREASE OPTIMISM
- More sunny weather
- A little more money each month
- Less negative news items
- More affection from a partner
- Improving my diet
- Finding a job I like
- Finally shaking an illness/injury
- Reassurances from my boss
- More time spent with the kids
- My sports team performing better
