Women yoomers, are you happy in life and in marriage?

August 1, 2008

Image credit: N. Mamluke Think of this question as the variation on the old question: what do women want? You know, seems that men (and maybe a few women) are puzzled about what makes a woman happy.

Well, turns out that women start out fairly happy. In our twenties, we’re plenty happy. But that changes as we age. Don’t bite my head off. I didn’t say that. I’m just quoting a recent study conducted by the University of California that says after 48 women are less happy.

Happy Young Women, Sad Young Men

Back to the twenties. The study used financial desires and family life as the primary aspects to determine happiness. Sure, that’s not all there is to being happy but let’s play along for the sake of the study. According to it, women are at the height of their happiness and power in their twenties. Why? I guess because we’re pretty then and don’t have a lot of financial dreams.

Remember being 21? Gosh, those were heady times. I felt like there was absolutely nothing I couldn’t do or have. There was no doubt about anything. Angst about eventually getting married, but no doubt about my future or abilities. Man, I was bold!

Men, it seems, are saddest when they are young and in their twenties. That’s because young men want stuff they can’t afford. They also want women, but those 20 something women want men who can provide- men in their 40’s. Hence young men are sad and lonely. Of course, this is a gross oversimplification but it kinda works.

Then, the tables turn. Around about 41 men catch up and pass women on the happiness meter.

Male Midlife Crisis Really Just a Spike in Happiness?

I had a crazy thought (yes, one of the many). What if a man’s midlife crisis is really just him realizing he’s happy. After all, he now has cash. Young girls think he’s sexy and worldly. He’s well taken care of because he has a wife at home. ( Did I mention I want a wife? We’ll talk about that another time).

What the Heck does all this Mean?

Beats me. It but the study piqued my interest for a couple of reasons. One, I’m about to turn 47 which is damned close to 48. I’m generally a very blessed and happy woman. I have a loving hubby, two kids who I adore (and actually like) and the freedom to run two very satisfying businesses. I’m good.

If I believe the study is accurate (and I don’t) maybe I should start ‘hording happiness ‘ now before the drought. You know, treasure every moment. Live my dreams. Once I turned 40 I noticed I was much more impatient about realizing my own goals instead of catering to my family’s dreams . Anybody else notice that?

I’d like to hear from men and women 48 and over about your sense of happiness?

Within the parameters of the study (family life and finances) are you happy?

Enjoy this post? Here are some more posts we think you might like:
Sexless Marriage: Isn’t Anybody Getting Any?
Do We Expect Too Much from Marriage?
Book Review: Smart Women Break Free

If you like this post, please subscribe | Posted by Dina

Comments

2 Responses to “Women yoomers, are you happy in life and in marriage?”

  1. Cathy Meyer on August 4th, 2008 3:50 am

    Funny, when I was 21 I was riddled with anxiety. Now that I’m 56 I feel there is nothing I can’t do or have. I’m older, darn sure wiser and have a better idea of what “happiness” really is.

    Hopefully I’m accumulating enough happiness to get me through any down times to come. One never knows!

    Great blog by the way. You have a very engaging writing style. I’m glad I found my way here.

  2. The Midlife Crisis Queen on August 4th, 2008 8:21 pm

    My twenties were horrendous! Anxiety, fear and boundless insecurity! In fact that lasted through most of my 40’s, come to think of it!

    At the ripe old age of 53 I’m feeling so much better thanks! After much trauma, some serious counseling, and many important midlife changes, I have finally learned how to love myself and I know for certain I won’t EVER allow ANYONE to treat me with disrespect again!

    Now that’s a GREAT feeling!

    Signed, The Midlife Crisis Queen :o)

Got something to say?