The Brain Case for Happiness

Recently we posted a brief discussion of the effect of sadness on memory. Now let’s discuss happiness.

Turns out, happiness is good for your brain. And this seems obvious, but there’s proof in the form of real-time brain scans, and the long-term effect happiness has on improved cognition.

The case for sadness says that when people are sad, they are more likely to create more accurate memories. This is not in contradiction to the case that happiness improves cognition. It’s like saying that concentrating on painting can make you remember the details, while being happy an make you a better painter.

Nor is the case that you have to decide between one or the other. The case for sadness suggests that rather than be worried about the occasional sad moment, know that it can allow for increased concentration and the formation of reliable memories.

Those moments of sadness are the exception that prove the rule of general happiness. A happiness which makes your mind better at doing—well, whatever it is you want to do.

So, consider this: having fun makes you happy, and being happy makes your brain work better. Incorporating fun into learning makes the learning that much more effective. It’s a win-win.