As we age, we become neither more nor less happy. Although in youth they tend to see the present more beautiful than the past, and the future even more radiant than the present.
As we age, we become neither more nor less happy. Although in youth they tend to see the present more beautiful than the past, and the future even more radiant than the present.
Self-deception? Yes, but useful, say research by American psychologists Michael Robinson and Carol Ryff (Michael Robinson, Carol Ryff).
In their opinion, the unpredictability of the future gives rise to hope that everything will be fine. This illusion of continuous improvement saves us from the fear of the unknown. Thus, the “bird of happiness of tomorrow” really helps the young. 45-year-olds have noticeably fewer illusions, and after 75 they disappear.