World Happiness Report 2025: The Power of Kindness and Trust
Every year, the World Happiness Report gives us new insights into what makes people happy, and this year’s findings highlight something powerful: people are much kinder than we expect.
Despite the pessimism we often hear about, research shows that acts of kindness and trust in our communities are deeply connected to overall happiness. And while GDP, life expectancy, and social support still play key roles, this year’s report emphasizes that generosity, trust, and even sharing a meal with others might be even more important than we previously thought.
A World That’s Kinder Than We Realize
One of the standout findings in the 2025 World Happiness Report comes from a simple but revealing experiment: what happens when someone loses a wallet? Across the globe, people assume the chances of getting it back are low. But in reality, wallets are returned twice as often as people expect.
What does this tell us? It shows that we tend to underestimate the kindness of others and that where people believe in the goodwill of their neighbors, overall happiness is significantly higher.
The happiest countries in the world, including Finland (which topped the list for the eighth year in a row), also have the highest rates of expected and actual returned wallets. The takeaway? Living in a place where we trust others makes life better.
The Simple Joys of Sharing
Another fascinating finding from this year’s report is how much happiness is tied to the simple act of sharing meals with others. Across cultures, eating together is a deeply ingrained tradition, and research shows it has a profound effect on well-being. Yet, in places like the U.S., the number of people dining alone has increased by 53% over the past two decades.
This decline in shared meals mirrors a broader trend of increasing loneliness, particularly among young adults. The report found that in 2023, 19% of young adults worldwide reported having no one to rely on for social support—a 39% increase since 2006.
But here's the hopeful part: simple acts of connection, such as inviting a friend over for dinner, checking in on a neighbor, or even making small talk with a stranger, can significantly improve happiness levels.
Happiness, Trust, and the Bigger Picture
The report also touches on a growing challenge: declining happiness and social trust in some parts of the world. The United States dropped to its lowest-ever ranking at 24th place, while countries like Costa Rica and Mexico climbed into the top 10 for the first time.
What’s driving these shifts? Experts suggest that social division, loneliness, and declining trust in institutions may be contributing factors. But the flip side of this finding is empowering: happiness isn’t just about wealth—it’s about community, trust, and knowing that people have your back.
As Jon Clifton, CEO of Gallup, put it:
"Happiness isn’t just about wealth or growth—it’s about trust, connection, and knowing people have your back."
A Reminder for All of Us
The 2025 World Happiness Report challenges us to rethink what really makes life fulfilling. Yes, financial stability and health matter, but so do everyday moments of kindness, generosity, and shared connection.
If you’re looking for ways to boost your happiness, the science is clear:
Believe in the kindness of others. The world is more generous than we often assume.
Share a meal. Invite someone over, meet a friend for coffee, or cook with family.
Prioritize relationships. Happiness thrives in connection, not isolation.
This week, let's all take a step toward a happier world, not by chasing wealth or status but by choosing to trust, give, and share.
And if you’re curious how this year’s report compares to last year’s, check out our 2024 World Happiness Report summary here.
Happiness Posts is published by Darin M. Klemchuk founder of Klemchuk PLLC, an intellectual property law firm located in Dallas, Texas and co-founder of Engage Workspace for Lawyers, a coworking space for lawyers. He also publishes the Ideate (law) and Elevate (law firm culture) blogs. You can find more information about his law practice at his firm bio and also at his BioSite.
