What really makes us happy? Positive psychology expert and founder of The Happiness Institute, Dr Tim Sharp (Dr Happy), the newly appointed Resident Happiness Expert for Oaks Hotels, Resorts & Suites, has shared the top things that make us happy…and they may not be what you’d think.
Rather than Ferraris, Fendi and fine dining, the top things contributing to our overall happiness are connection, finding time for fun, and taking time out to travel, which create opportunities to try new things and take much-needed time out from the hustle and bustle of daily life.
“Research shows that travel taps into some of the key principles of happiness because it’s intrinsically linked to embracing new experiences and breaking out of our usual routines. Trying new things gives us the good feels and creates opportunities to learn and gain confidence, which in turn reduces stress and boosts our mood and satisfaction levels – contributing to that overall happy feeling,” said Dr Happy. “There is no doubt experiences trump material possessions every time, and the more frequently we’re able to get away, the happier we are.”
“Travel also helps open our minds and creates connections with other people, whether that’s our travelling companions or meeting people along the way and making memories together,” he added.
“Even the initial step of researching and booking time away creates the joy of anticipation, with an incredible 97% of people confirming they feel happier when they have a trip to look forward to, and 71% of people saying they feel energised when they have travel coming up within six months[1][ii]…proving that holidays are a fantastic way to improve your personal wellbeing.”
Minor Hotels’ Group Director of Brand and Marketing (including Oaks Hotels, Resorts & Suites) Melissa Rodrigues agreed, noting that the company’s new brand platform Happy Folks Choose Oaks centres around the same philosophy, that simple things such as weekend escapes, getting away with family and friends and making time to connect were central to happy leisure or business stays for its guests.
We’re thrilled to partner with Dr Happy to celebrate the launch of the Happy Folks Choose Oaks campaign and launch the first-ever search for The Happiest Person. The winner, who will be announced on International Day of Happiness next March, will be rewarded with a holiday for every season at Oaks properties of their choice,” said Rodrigues.
Entrants are invited to visit Oaks Hotels for more details about the search for The Happiest Person and to nominate themselves or friends or family for the title.
Are you The Happiest Person?
Tell us why you or someone you know is the happiest person, couple or family for your chance to win ‘A Holiday a Season’ – 4 x 3-night stays in a 1- or 2-bedroom apartment at any Oaks Hotels, Resorts & Suites location in Australia and New Zealand.
To enter, post a photo or video on your Instagram profile, tag @oaks_hotels #happyfolkschooseoaks and tell us in 25 words or less in your caption why you or someone you know is the happiest person, couple or family to win. Entries are open now and will be drawn with help from Dr Happy AKA Dr Tim Sharp, founder of The Happiness Institute, on the International Day of Happiness.
Happy Folks Choose Oaks is an integrated PR and marketing campaign for Oaks Hotels’ more than 60 properties across Australia and New Zealand, to help differentiate the brand and reflect the real reason travellers seeking comfort, space, stellar locations, and a welcoming smile choose to stay at Oaks.
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