Better Together

On July 12, 2012, the General Assembly of the United Nations proclaimed March 20 the International Day of Happiness, recognising the relevance of happiness and wellbeing as universal goals and aspirations in the lives of people around the world and the importance of their recognition in public policy objectives. It also recognised the need for a more inclusive, equitable and balanced approach to economic growth that promotes sustainable development, poverty eradication, happiness and the wellbeing of all peoples.

But as a society we are not giving this enough priority. Despite decades of economic growth, we are no happier now than we were 60 years ago; we need to re-think our priorities.

The good news is that our actions and choices can affect our happiness. What makes us happy has less to do with our money or possessions and more to do with our attitudes and relationships with other people.

This year’s theme – Happier Together – focuses on what we have in common, rather than what divides us and echoes Rotary’s 2019-20 theme of Rotary Connects the World. Working together – be it with other Rotarians, other clubs, other countries, or other organisations – is at that very heart of Rotary. Here is a look at how we are joining forces to do even more good in our communities and across the globe.