Around this time of year, you might hear the familiar line, “Love is in the air; everywhere I look around.” For some, it sparks warmth. For others, it sparks an eye roll. Valentine’s Day divides opinion, often dismissed as a Hallmark invention rather than a meaningful moment.
Yet the research tells a different story.
One of the longest-running Harvard studies, active since the 1930s, consistently points to a powerful truth: love is strongly linked with happiness, and it is genuinely good for us.
Before anyone checks out of this conversation because they are not celebrating Valentine’s Day, it is worth noting that the study is not referring to romantic fireworks. It focuses on something much more stable and meaningful.
It is about companionate love.The type of love that stays the course.
What the Harvard Study Found
The research identified that long-term wellbeing is shaped less by passion and more by connection. Supportive relationships. People who have your back. A sense of belonging. These forms of love protect our emotional health, strengthen resilience, and contribute to a longer and healthier life.
The message is simple. Human connection matters.
Happiness in Three Parts
As a small Valentine’s gift to you, we want to revisit a popular episode from the Leadership in Chaos podcast: Happiness in Three Parts.
The episode explores the idea that happiness relies on three pillars:
- Something to do
- Something to look forward to
- Someone to love
These three elements apply whether you are celebrating today or not. They are universal. They remind us that happiness is built on action, anticipation, and connection.
A Simple Reminder for Today
However you are spending the day, be kind to yourself.
Stay present.
Spend time with the person you love most or surround yourself with people who lift you.
These small choices compound into wellbeing over time.
You can listen to the full episode or read the transcript here:
https://bit.ly/36cgHE5
