A recent study has shaken up the usual rankings of countries based on happiness. This time, the focus was on how well people are truly living their lives. The Global Flourishing Study looked at various aspects of life, not just how satisfied people are with their lives. It's a broader view than the usual happiness reports.

The results might surprise you. Indonesia came out on top. Yes, Indonesia! This country is not exactly known for its wealth. But it scored high in areas like strong relationships and community spirit. These factors seem to make a big difference in how well people live their lives.

Israel and the Philippines also made it to the top of the list. These countries have something in common: strong social connections and a sense of purpose. They show that money isn't everything when it comes to living a good life.

On the other hand, Japan was at the bottom of the list. Despite being wealthy and having long lifespans, people in Japan reported feeling isolated. They were less likely to have close friends, which seems to affect their overall well-being.

The study also looked at how age affects flourishing. In many countries, including the US, people tend to flourish more as they get older. This is different from the usual pattern of life satisfaction, which often dips in middle age.

Mental health played a big role in these findings. Poor mental health can hold young people back, especially in countries like the US. This highlights the importance of addressing mental health issues early on.

The study also found that being part of a community, like a church, can boost a person's ability to flourish. This is something that many developed countries seem to be lacking. People in these countries often report feeling less connected and having fewer meaningful relationships.

The researchers behind the study suggest that we need to find a balance. We should aim for economic growth without losing sight of what truly matters: meaning, purpose, and strong relationships. It's a reminder that there's more to life than just wealth and long lifespans.

Where do people truly thrive?

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