Being happy and positive are truly subjective feelings. That doesn’t mean, however, that where you live can’t affect how happy you are. And according to one study, Panama is the place to be. In fact, Latin America in general seems to rank high on the happiness scale. A recent Gallup poll shows Panama ranking #2 on a list of 138 countries where people were surveyed about having a positive outcome, and feeling happy. Paraguay got the top honors at #1, with Guatemala, Nicaragua, Ecuador, Costa Rica, and Colombia all falling into the top ten. The United States, in comparison, came in at #24.
Here’s how the study was defined:
“Experiencing positive emotions was defined as smiling or laughing, experiencing enjoyment, being treated with respect, feeling well-rested, and learning or doing something interesting in the previous day. Survey data from about 1,000 residents in each of 138 countries was used for the report.
Overall, the majority of people reported feeling positive emotions, Gallup researchers found. At least seven out of 10 adults surveyed overall reported laughing or smiling a lot, feeling well-rested, being treated with respect or experiencing enjoyment in the previous day, while a bit more than half reported learning or doing something interesting the previous day.”
Why are Panamanians happy?
This is not the first time Gallup has ranked Panama as the “happiest place on earth,” as the country has hit the top of the charts for the past three years running. And for those people that live, work, or visit Panama, there’s no secret to it.
For many in Panama, life moves at a simpler, more enjoyable pace. While this can take some getting used to, especially for those who are used to a faster-paced lifestyle, the end results tend to have a positive effect on the population. Panamanian culture embraces leisure time, as well as celebrations with family, friends, and neighbors.
There is a naturally relaxed outlook to life within the Panamanian culture, and it can easily rub off on you as an expat, or even a tourist. Panama has a naturally warm climate year-round, has hundreds of beaches, dense rainforests, and even high hills; all of which add to a natural atmosphere that encourages relaxation, and lends to the laid-back nature of the local people. People who live in Panama find it easier to get proper rest, enjoy the outdoors, and spend more time with family.
Living in Panama and adjusting to a different culture is different for everyone. And, of course, anywhere you live will have its ups and downs. There are many things in Panama that can be frustrating, and it’s important to remember that as well. The city has a lot of traffic, it rains a lot, and for many, learning another language can be a big challenge. Panamanians have a lot on their plate, but most maintain a positive outlook by living simply, and appreciating the little things in life that make you happy.
This study is far from scientific, and obviously no one can really measure happiness. It is, however, a fun reaffirmation of what many people who live in Panama already know. When you live here with an open mind, you’ll find it easier to let your troubles go, and relax. Here’s to being happy.
