The Zoomer Report: No Pain, No Gain

The axiom no pain, no gain also applies to happiness. According to research in the Journal of Happiness Studies, people who work hard at improving a skill or ability, may experience stress in the moment, but it makes them happier in the long run.

The researchers say that while people often give up their goals because they are stressful, there are big benefits from learning to do something well, whether it’s learning a new language or mastering a workout. And what’s striking is that you don’t have to reach your goal to reap them.

The study participants engaged in challenging activities. When they were monitored on an hourly basis, they reported that their happiness decreased. But these same activities made them feel happy and satisfied when they looked back on their day as a whole. Researchers say this suggests what the old saying says: that in the process of learning something, we need to endure temporary stress before reaping the rewards.

Photo ©iStockphoto.com/ Chris Schmidt

READ MORE ZOOMER REPORTS:

The Zoomer Report: Nostalgia

The Zoomer Report: Happiness tips

The Zoomer Report: Five brain foods

About The Zoomer Report

Libby ZnaimerLibby Znaimer, a prominent Canadian journalist specializing in business, politics, and lifestyle issues, is producer and host of The Zoomer Report, a special feature on topics of interest to baby boomers and the 50+. It covers everything from health and wealth to leisure and volunteerism, from the special vantage point of the generation that has changed society in its wake.

Ms. Znaimer is also Vice-President of News and Information for Classical 96.3FM and AM740. Her first book, “In Cancerland – Living Well Is The Best Revenge” – was published in October 2007 by Key Porter.

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