Marriage or career for lasting happiness?

Which would you choose? This op-ed piece in the New York Times starts out with the example of Sandra Bullock who in the space of a week or so went from the high of winning a best actress Oscar, to the depths of despair upon finding out that her husband had had a number of affairs. The piece then goes on to ask, which would you choose – and let’s hope none of us have to make this decision – a happy marriage or a successful career?

The columnist, David Brooks, then goes on to outline recent research that highlights the life choices that can bring us lasting happiness, namely that nurturing close relationships is the key to finding fufillment. “Worldly success has shallow roots while interpersonal bonds permeate through and through,” he writes.

“According to one study, joining a group that meets even just once a month produces the same happiness gain as doubling your income. According to another, being married produces a psychic gain equivalent to more than $100,000 a year.”

All of which is wonderful to hear and a great impetus to go home after work tonight and give your loved ones an extra big squeeze (or a surprise phone call if they live away from you)!