International Day of Happiness: Purpose, Theme, Activities & Awareness

When is the International Day of Happiness

• International Day of Happiness is celebrated every year on March 20th.
• This day was established by the United Nations General Assembly in 2012 to recognize the importance of happiness and well-being as fundamental goals of human life.
• The idea behind this day is to promote the idea that happiness is a fundamental human right, and that everyone should have the opportunity to pursue happiness and live a fulfilling life.
• The International Day of Happiness encourages people all over the world to focus on the things that make them happy, and to spread happiness and positivity to others.

International Day of Happiness 2023

International Day of Happiness Theme

• The theme for International Day of Happiness 2023 is

Make it a point to be social

• Previous themes have included "Happiness for All, Together" and "Keep Calm, Stay Wise, Be Kind".
• This day is a reminder that happiness is not a luxury, but a fundamental aspect of human well-being, and that we can all take steps to increase our own happiness and the happiness of those around us.

International Day of Happiness Purpose

• The purpose of the International Day of Happiness is to promote happiness as a universal goal and recognize its importance in the lives of people around the world.
• The United Nations General Assembly established this day to raise awareness of the importance of happiness, well-being, and mental health as essential components of human development and to encourage countries, communities, and individuals to take action to promote happiness and well-being.
• The day is a reminder that happiness is not just a personal pursuit but also a social and global responsibility.
• It encourages people to think about what happiness means to them and to take positive steps toward achieving it.
• It also aims to promote the idea that happiness and well-being are interconnected with social, economic, and environmental factors and that policies and programs that prioritize happiness can lead to more sustainable and inclusive societies.
• Ultimately, the International Day of Happiness is an opportunity for people around the world to celebrate the things that make them happy, spread positivity and kindness, and work towards creating a happier world for everyone.

International Day of Happiness History

• The International Day of Happiness was established by the United Nations General Assembly on June 28th, 2012, through Resolution 66/281.
• The resolution recognized that the pursuit of happiness is a fundamental human goal and that promoting happiness is essential for the well-being of individuals and societies.
• The resolution also acknowledged the need for a more inclusive, equitable, and balanced approach to economic growth that promotes sustainable development, poverty eradication, and happiness.
• The first International Day of Happiness was celebrated on March 20th, 2013, and it has been celebrated every year since.
• The date was chosen to coincide with the March equinox, which represents the start of spring in the northern hemisphere and the start of autumn in the southern hemisphere, and is a time of renewal, growth, and hope.
• The International Day of Happiness is celebrated in many countries around the world, with events and activities that promote happiness, well-being, and kindness.
• It has become a popular social media trend with the hashtag #InternationalDayOfHappiness and has inspired many initiatives and programs aimed at promoting happiness and well-being, including the World Happiness Report, which ranks countries based on their level of happiness and well-being.

International Day of Happiness Activities

There are many activities that individuals and communities can participate in on the International Day of Happiness to promote happiness and well-being. Here are some ideas:

1. Practice gratitude: Take time to reflect on the things in your life that you are grateful for and express your gratitude to others.
2. Perform acts of kindness: Do something kind for someone else, such as volunteering, helping a neighbor, or sending a thoughtful message.
3. Connect with others: Spend time with friends and family or connect with others virtually to foster positive relationships and social support.
4. Get moving: Engage in physical activity, such as going for a walk, practicing yoga, or dancing, to promote physical and mental well-being.
5. Cultivate mindfulness: Practice mindfulness meditation or other relaxation techniques to reduce stress and promote inner calm.
6. Spread positivity: Share positive messages on social media or engage in activities that promote happiness and positivity in your community.
7. Celebrate: Plan a celebration or party with friends and family to mark the day and focus on happiness and well-being.

Remember, the International Day of Happiness is about promoting happiness and well-being, both for yourself and for others. Choose activities that bring you joy and fulfillment, and that promote positivity and connection with others.

International Day of Happiness Quotes

Here are some inspiring quotes related to happiness that you might want to share or reflect on during the International Day of Happiness:

1. "The greatest happiness you can have is knowing that you do not necessarily require happiness." - William Saroyan
2. "Happiness is not something ready-made. It comes from your own actions." - Dalai Lama
3. "The purpose of our lives is to be happy." - Dalai Lama
4. "Happiness is not a goal, but a by-product." - Eleanor Roosevelt
5. "The happiness of your life depends upon the quality of your thoughts." - Marcus Aurelius
6. "Happiness is a warm puppy." - Charles M. Schulz
7. "The happiness you feel is in direct proportion to the love you give." - Oprah Winfrey
8. "Happiness is not the absence of problems, it's the ability to deal with them." - Steve Maraboli
9. "Happiness is not a destination, it's a journey." - Zig Ziglar
10. "The secret of happiness is not in doing what one likes, but in liking what one does." - J.M. Barrie

Remember, happiness is a personal and subjective experience, and what brings happiness to one person may be different from what brings happiness to another. Find what makes you happy and cultivate it in your life.

International Day of Happiness Importance

The International Day of Happiness is important for several reasons:

1. Promoting well-being: The day promotes the idea that happiness and well-being are essential components of human development, and that promoting happiness is a critical aspect of creating sustainable and inclusive societies.
2. Raising awareness: By raising awareness of the importance of happiness, the International Day of Happiness encourages people to take positive steps towards improving their own happiness and well-being and to advocate for policies and programs that prioritize happiness and well-being.
3. Encouraging positive action: The International Day of Happiness inspires people to take positive actions that promote happiness, such as performing acts of kindness, expressing gratitude, and cultivating positive relationships.
4. Fostering a sense of community: The day brings people together around a common goal of promoting happiness and well-being, fostering a sense of community and connection.
5. Emphasizing the importance of mental health: The International Day of Happiness highlights the importance of mental health and well-being and encourages individuals, communities, and countries to prioritize mental health care and support.

In summary, the International Day of Happiness is important because it promotes the idea that happiness is a fundamental human goal, encourages positive action toward well-being and mental health, and fosters a sense of community around the goal of creating a happier and more fulfilled world.

International Day of Happiness Celebration Ideas

Here are some celebration ideas for the International Day of Happiness that can promote happiness and well-being for individuals and communities:

1. Have a gratitude party: Gather with friends and family and share what you are grateful for while enjoying food, drinks, and music.
2. Organize a community service event: Volunteer at a local charity, organize a cleanup of a nearby park, or participate in a fundraising event for a good cause.
3. Plan a happiness-themed movie night: Choose a movie that inspires happiness and well-being, such as a feel-good comedy or an uplifting documentary, and invite friends and family to watch and discuss.
4. Host a yoga or meditation session: Gather a group of friends or join a community class to practice mindfulness, relaxation, and physical well-being.
5. Organize a kindness challenge: Encourage others to perform acts of kindness throughout the day, such as writing a thank-you note, offering a compliment, or donating to a charity.
6. Participate in a happiness workshop or seminar: Attend a happiness-themed workshop or seminar to learn about the science of happiness, techniques for boosting well-being, and strategies for living a fulfilling life.
7. Start a happiness journal: Begin a journal to document the positive experiences, thoughts, and emotions that bring you happiness and well-being.

Remember, celebrating the International Day of Happiness is about promoting happiness and well-being for yourself and for others. Choose activities that inspire joy, connection, and positivity, and share the happiness with others in your community.