According to the 2025 World Happiness Report, connection and kindness are key to happiness. Strong social connections—with family, friends, and communities—are important drivers of well-being. 

These relationships offer emotional support, a sense of belonging, and contribute to both mental and physical health. Countries with high levels of social trust and community involvement tend to report higher happiness levels.

Kindness also plays a significant role in happiness. Acts of generosity, such as helping others, volunteering, or donating, benefit those being helped and increases the giver’s happiness. Kindness and generosity have apparently increased since the pandemic, suggesting that helping others is crucial for improving overall happiness.

The report ranks the UK 23rd in overall happiness, a slight decline from its position of 20th in 2024, which it attributes to decreasing levels of happiness and social trust, along with rising political polarisation.

So, now we know the key to being happy is kindness and connection, we can boost our happiness!