In Panama, being happy and having a positive outlook on life is par for the course. The locals know it. The expats know it. These days, the rest of the world is taking notice too. In a recent poll held by Gallup, known as the Gallup-Healthways Well-Being Index, Panama ranked at the top of the list. To put that in perspective, the US was ranked 12th, and Canada 10th. The poll was based on asking people about their positive outlook, job security, financial outlook, and overall happiness. According to Gallup, 61% of Panamanians are “thriving” on at least three measures of well-being. But, why Panama? Here are a few reasons why Panama topped the list.
There’s a lot to be grateful for
Life in Panama is good. That’s not to say that the country doesn’t have its problems; it does. However these days, the overall quality of living is very high on the Isthmus. Unemployment is low, job creation is growing, the economy is growing, and access to essential services and medical care is improving and growing along with it. Panamanians are taking note, and are making the most of it. Food prices, although rising, are still much lower than neighboring countries, and with the highest minimum wage in Latin America, people that didn’t have access to disposable income, are now starting to have it, albeit at a slower pace than many would like.
Panama is not an economic paradise for everyone. Let’s not mince words here. There is still a lot to be done to close the gap between the rich and poor. However, it’s important to remember that for many Panamanians, money isn’t everything. Certainly not when looking at their overall happiness, and positive outlook for the future. And that’s important to remember when looking at these types of polls. Are you happy with what you have, and what you want in the future? In Panama, most people are. And that’s a great thing.
It’s part of the Panamanian culture to by happy
Panama is a generally laidback place. It’s got tropical weather, and a tropical vibe to it. While big business in the city may move with the hustle and bustle of a booming metropolis, the general vibe of the people remains relaxed, low stress, and positive. It’s been part of the culture for years, and with or without modern development, it’s still an integral part of Panama that permeates from the locals, to the tourists, to the expats. The phrase “don’t worry, be happy” is an apt description of how to get by here.
The relaxed nature of Panamanian culture can often be hard to adapt to for outsiders. It may come as even a bit of a shock. But as polls like this latest from Gallup show, the less you worry, the better your well-being is. Period. Having a positive outlook, despite setbacks, is critical to maintaining your mental health, and happiness. It also helps to be optimistic towards the future.
With so much rapid growth, expansion, and prosperity, it’s easy to see why Panamanians are so positive about the future. It’s a country that’s growing and adapting around us. It’s a place of constant change, and positive growth. People who live in Panama know this, and for the most part, are happy with their country, and what it has in store for years to come.
