Research across 145 countries finds well-being generally follows a U-shaped curve over a human adult life.

A happiness curve similar to that of humans appears in other animals, hinting that biology may play a part.

Seeing a heavy stretch as widely shared, not a personal failing, can support self-compassion and hope.

As you approach 50, you might find that life feels more challenging than it did a few years ago. Maybe it’s the combination of kids, work, and the never-ending daily tasks. Things can feel as though they’re shifting in a more demanding direction. In moments like these, turning to research can offer some reassurance and help you make sense of what you’re experiencing.

Research Finds a U-Shaped Happiness Curve

The economist David Blanchflower analyzed life satisfaction in 145 countries and found the same pattern almost everywhere: higher in youth, lowest in midlife (around age 50), then climbing again, peaking in our 70s (Blanchflower, 2021). On average, it’s a U-shape.

It gets stranger. In a study of........

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