President’s Corner

An Algorithm for Happiness

The title of this article is designed to attract the attention of those of us that are mechanical, engineering, or mathematics thinkers. The majority
of 1541 members are likely in this group. So, is there a formula to be happy? According to a recent Google search of what makes people happy?, the answer is “Yes.” More on that in a moment.

Before you come to the conclusion that this has nothing to do with an EAA article, bear with me for a moment. Last week I was one of several that gathered to install replacement ceiling panels in our EAA hangar. By the end of the project it was very obvious that in spite of working for several hours, the difficulties of the task, and breaking a sweat, everyone was smiling and had a great time. Does that mean that work equals happiness? Close, but not quite.

According to my Google search that led me to the web site “joyfuldays.com,” there are 10 things that make people happy. For the sake of keeping this article from running on, I will mention the top two:

  1. Family and relationships. “The happiest people spend time with family and friends”. Making friends through social activities is very rewarding and results in a sense of connection and fulfillment.
  2. Meaningful work. “We are happiest when engaged in activities that make us forget ourselves and lose track of time”.

It becomes clear how participation has big rewards. When one realizes that the “work” involved doesn’t seem like work when it has elements of fun and fulfillment attached to the activity. At most EAA meetings there is a call for volunteers for one thing or another, and often it does not result in very many raising their hands. That is very unfortunate because happiness is not often rewarded by staying on the couch. The next time volunteers are needed, I encourage everyone to step up and discover that the result will most likely have rewards in ways that will surprise you, including a feeling of a job well done and, most importantly, providing several new friends at the end of the day.

Over the years I have been a volunteer for many good causes, including Rotary Club, Big Brothers and Sisters and of course EAA. All of them left me with the feeling that I received more in good feelings than I would have expected. So next time join in and find that you have many “friends waiting to be discovered.”

Ron Wright
President, Chapter 1541