The key to finding happiness has been widely researched. The data on happiness suggest that it comes down to our connections with others.

Dr. Sonja Lyubomirsky, a professor of psychology at the University of California, Riverside and author of the new book “How To Feel Loved,” explained that her research has identified one key factor in happiness, and it comes down to conversation and deeper connection with others.

During a TEDNext 2025 presentation, Lyubomirsky explained that she has been a happiness researcher for more than 30 years. In her lab, she has conducted experiments on “happiness interventions” since 1998.

These “interventions” include exercises such as writing letters of gratitude, performing acts of kindness, and “acting” extroverted, all of which led people to feel happier. Her research suggests these activities increase happiness because “they help us feel more connected to and loved by others.”

How to connect with others

Lyubomirsky’s next challenge was to determine........

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