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194 Rob: That’s good because the study found having an active life is most important for a happy and rewarding life – that means a feeling of satisfaction and pleasure. There are other reasons too as we can hear from the Director of the World Happiness Database, Professor Veenhoven. When in life does he say we are happiest? Professor Rudd Veenhoven, Director of World Happiness Database: Research has shown that we can make ourselves happier because we see that happiness does change over time, and that these changes are not just a matter of better circumstances but also better dealing with life. Elderly people tend to be wise and for that reason, happier. Finn: OK, our happiness changes over time. It’s older people – the elderly – who are happiest because, he says, they are wiser. They understand things more and have learnt to deal with the problems in life. So Rob, you’re old so you should be happy, right? Rob: Wrong, Finn! The study has also found having children – which I do – lowers your happiness level. Finn: But it does say your happiness increases when they grow up, your children grow up, and leave home. Rob: That’s good to hear. The study also says if you think you’re good looking, rather than if you actually are, makes you happier. So you might be really ugly but if you think you’re handsome then you’re happy. Isn’t that right Finn? Finn: Right yeah, I guess that makes me the happiest man on the planet, Rob! Rob: Did you also know, being in a long-term relationship and going out for dinner a lot also makes you happier. Finn: Oh, so are you saying I need to do these things to be happy? Rob: Yes Finn. But luckily for you, the study has also found that being sad for ten per cent of the time is actually good for you. Let’s face it – we can’t be happy all the time! Finn: That’s comforting to know – but Rob you can cheer me up – or make me happier – by telling me that I answered today’s question correctly. Rob: We’ll see! Earlier I asked you which country did The World Happiness Database rank as having the greatest “satisfaction with life”? Finn: I said Canada.