Celebrating Happiness Week: A journey of meaning and connection rooted in the simple practices of everyday life

Finding community is the key to lasting-joy and well-being 

Happiness is often thought of as something we chase—something to be attained through achievements, milestones, or external validation. Yet true joy does not reside in a final destination; it is woven into the very fabric of the journey itself. It is not a fixed state of plenitude but the continuous unfolding of a life well-lived, a path shaped by purpose, virtue, and connection. Happiness is not a possession nor a title to be earned; it is the art of aligning our actions with meaning, of walking a road well-chosen, where fulfillment emerges not as an end but as a way of being. 

As we celebrate Happiness Week 2025 at IE University, this year’s theme, "Community: Thriving Together," reminds us that joy is not a solitary pursuit but a shared experience. The ancient Greeks spoke of eudaimonia—a flourishing life, not defined by fleeting pleasure, but by a deeper sense of harmony, virtue, and alignment with one’s values. True happiness, then, is not mere contentment but the cultivation of a life rich in meaning, rooted in the relationships we nurture and the virtues we embody.

Amidst the week’s reflections and celebrations, let us turn our attention to the everyday moments where joy takes root—not in grand achievements, but in the mindful way we engage with the present. As thinkers like Heidegger and Merleau-Ponty suggest, we are not as isolated minds contemplating existence, but rather we are embodied beings fully immersed in the existence: relationships, daily practices, and the ever-unfolding flow of time. So, to be truly happy is not to escape the present in search of some future fulfillment, but to attune ourselves to the richness of now. 

Happiness is not external to us; it is an emergent quality of how we dwell in the present, how we engage with the world and others in an authentic, open, and attentive way. Just as phenomenology teaches us, it is key to return to experience itself—to perceive the world without preconceptions, to be fully present in our encounters. Then happiness is found not in the abstraction of ideals, but in the simple, embodied act of living: in the warmth of a shared conversation, in the rhythm of a familiar routine, in the deep presence of being truly here, truly aware.

Here are some guiding principles to support you on this journey:

1. Find joy in the ordinary

Happiness is not solely found in grand achievements or life-altering moments; it thrives in the quiet, unassuming details of daily life. A warm cup of coffee in the morning, the gentle exchange of a kind word, the golden touch of sunlight on your skin—these are not mere passing experiences but invitations to presence. Too often, we overlook these moments in pursuit of something greater, forgetting that true joy resides not in the extraordinary, but in our ability to be fully attuned to the present.

Mindfulness expert Kelly Barron suggests shifting our frame of reference will help us appreciate these micro-moments, creating a positive feedback loop that trains our minds to recognize joy more often.

2. Slow down and savor the moment

In a world that moves at full speed, we often rush through life without fully experiencing it. Slowing down isn’t about doing less—it’s about being more present. Whether it’s truly tasting your food instead of eating on autopilot, pausing to appreciate a view instead of snapping a quick photo, or listening intently in a conversation instead of thinking about what’s next, these small shifts make a difference. Studies show that mindfulness, or being present and conscious of the moment, can enhance our overall sense of happiness throughout the day. Try walking a little slower, lingering over a song you love, or spending an extra moment enjoying a conversation with a friend.

3. Engage your senses

Joy isn’t just a thought; it’s an experience that engages all five senses. Take a moment each day to fully tune into one of them. Smell the fresh air during a morning walk, listen to the laughter of friends, feel the texture of a book’s pages in your hands, or notice the vibrant colors of nature. By becoming more aware of your senses, you’ll naturally find more joy in simple experiences.

4. Connect with others

Human connection is one of the most powerful sources of joy. In fact, a long-term study conducted by Harvard University found that people with healthy relationships live longer, happier, and healthier lives. Engaging with others, whether through deep conversations, shared laughter, or acts of kindness, fosters a sense of belonging and support that directly contributes to long-term happiness. IE University’s Happiness Week offers great opportunities to connect with others in your community. 

5. Practice gratitude

Joy doesn’t always come from what’s happening around us but from how we choose to perceive our experiences. A simple gratitude practice—for example, writing down three things you’re thankful for each day—can shift your focus toward the positive aspects of life. Noticing and appreciating simple things, such as your health, the sunshine, or your home, can generate a quiet sense of contentment. Research has demonstrated the positive effect of gratitude on the brain and our overall well-being.

6. Move your body

Physical movement is a direct path to feeling happier. This year, Happiness Week at IE University includes physical activities like yoga, encouraging participants to engage in mindful movement. Whether it’s yoga, a brisk walk, or dancing to your favorite song, moving your body releases endorphins—natural mood boosters that help reduce stress and increase feelings of well-being.

7. Take a break from screens

In a world of constant notifications and digital distractions, unplugging for even a short time each day can clear mental space for joy. Try setting aside your phone during meals, taking a screen-free walk, or practicing a few minutes of silent reflection. A digital detox, even in small doses, can help you reconnect with yourself and the world around you.

8. Give to others

One of the simplest ways to find joy is to create it for someone else. Small acts of kindness—holding the door open, sending an encouraging message, or helping a friend—can spark joy not only in the recipient but in yourself, too. Research shows that giving fosters a sense of purpose and connection, key ingredients for lasting happiness.

Join the celebration

Happiness Week at IE University is a vibrant celebration that brings us together every year to share joy. Each day features a special event designed to foster connection and well-being. This year, our lineup features several exciting, joy-inducing activities: 

• March 17: We’ll kick off with a concert featuring personal stories told through music in collaboration with Fundación Princesa de Girona. 

• March 18: The concert is followed by 108 Sun Salutations in Segovia and a workout session

• March 19: Midweek, art well-being and happiness discussions will be open for our community, as well as our Sun Salutations practice in Madrid.

• March 20: Creativity Day and a guided visit to the Thyssen museum will offer immersive cultural experiences. 

• March 21: The celebration concludes with the Well-being Fest, a lively gathering with music, games, and a community raffle to wrap up the week with joy and connection.

IE University’s Happiness Week is a reminder that joy isn’t something to wait for—it’s something we can create every day. By embracing small, mindful practices on a daily basis, we can nurture a lasting sense of happiness for ourselves and those around us.

So, take a deep breath, slow down, and find joy in all the moments—big or small—that make up your day. Because when we thrive together, happiness follows.