March 20th is the International Day of Happiness, and the world is getting ready to celebrate it. It might sound counterintuitive that we should have chosen one day to celebrate happiness. The fact, however, is that in a milieu where we tend to celebrate material progress (and frequently link happiness to it alone), we do not recognize the importance of happiness in our lives enough. Any start is, therefore, great.

Established by the United Nations General Assembly on 28 June 2012, 193 United Nations member states adopted a resolution calling for happiness to be given greater priority. It recognized the relevance of happiness and well-being as universal goals and aspirations in the lives of people worldwide and the importance of their recognition in public policy objectives. Importantly, it recognized the need for a balanced approach to economic growth that promotes sustainable development, poverty eradication, happiness, and the well-being of everyone.

It is interesting to know that the resolution was initiated by Bhutan, a country that has recognized the value of national happiness over national income and famously adopted the goal of Gross National Happiness over Gross National Product.

The United Nations invites everyone of any age, classroom, business, and government to celebrate the International Day of Happiness.

Theme for 2025

The theme for the International Day of Happiness in 2025 is “Caring and Sharing”. This theme emphasizes the importance of caring for others, building connections, and being part of a community.

Why is this theme important?

● It highlights the importance of looking out for one another.
● It explores the latest research on the importance of benevolence, empathy, and trust.
● It encourages people to make more continuous progress and be thankful for life’s small things.

The day will see the World Happiness Report 2025 launched with a series of events, live-streamed from around the world, to celebrate the International Day of Happiness. This year’s edition will once again feature a ranking of countries by their average levels of positive life satisfaction. On an aside, in the 2024 World Happiness Report, India ranked 126th out of 143 countries.

There are myriad options if you are wondering how you can get involved in the International Day of Happiness. Consider some of these:

● Do something kind for someone else.
● Volunteer for a local charity.
● Reflect on what makes you happy.
● Celebrate with others.
● Keep a gratitude log.
● Spend time with loved ones.
● Donate to or work with a charity that encourages good deeds.
● Share positive messages on social media.

It is encouraging to see a profound shift in attitudes worldwide. People are now recognising that ‘progress’ should be about increasing human happiness and well-being, not just growing the economy.

If you look around, different countries have different concepts of happiness. Sample some of these below:

1. Hygge

In Denmark, happiness is about coziness and comfort. The concept is called Hygge. It could mean small things such as a warm fire or a good book, essentially anything that warms the soul.

2. Sisu

In Finland, Sisu refers to resilience in the face of adversity. A part of the country’s character, Finnish people take pride in the concept of Sisu.

3. Niksen

In the Netherlands, the concept of Niksen, or the art of doing nothing, is popular. It is a refreshing break from the world which generally tends to glorify overexhaustion.

4. Wabi-sabi

The Japanese concept of Wabi-Sabi is based on acceptance and takes it a step ahead to celebrate imperfection. It finds beauty in the natural state of things and embraces the beauty of aging and decay.

5. Shinrin-yoku

Once again, in Japan, this concept means bathing in the forest. It involves mindfully walking, sitting in the forest, and being one with nature.

6. Craic

In Ireland, Craic refers to having a good time with friends, which is replete with loud conversations, laughing, and having fun.

7. Entrückt

In Germany, entrückt is about being lost in thought and in your mind. It encourages daydreaming, being lost in thought, and also being meditative.

8. Estrenar

A seemingly simple concept, it is popular in Spain and is about using or wearing something for the first time. Think of the soft fluffiness of a new sweater or the smile that a new flattering piece of clothing brings to your face.

9. Siesta

Yes, it is a legitimate source of happiness. Siesta is a proven method in Spain to relieve stress and recharge your mind.

10. Flâner

In France, the concept is popular. It simply means strolling around without a rush in the world. Unlike the oft-promoted concept of having a purpose, this concept allows you to let your feet take you where you will.

11. Lagom

In Sweden, this concept is about approaching life with moderation. That is what brings simplicity and balance.

12. Meraki

In Greece, this is about giving undivided attention to every task, big or small. It means taking on every task with a lot of love.

To sum up

There you go. Celebrating happiness this International Day of Happiness and every other day. For really, happiness is all around. This does not mean that the challenges of life will not strike. The idea is not to be unduly overwhelmed by them but to continue to enjoy life, irrespective. Happiness doesn’t come with a fixed definition; it is yours to create!

Stay tuned to this space for more such uplifting content. At Footprints Childcare, the largest chain of preschools and playgroups in India, we are committed to children’s holistic development. The scientifically developed HighScope curriculum is designed to help teachers appropriately support children at their current developmental level and gently extend their thinking and reasoning.