Hanoi (VNA) – Happiness – a seemingly simple concept – is something people spend a lifetime seeking. Many pursue grand ambitions, overlooking the fact that happiness often lies in ordinary moments: a warm family meal, a familiar laugh, a loving glance, or a child’s joy at welcoming a parent home.
At its core, happiness is rooted in love and togetherness. It is reflected in families gathering during Tet or in the quiet bonds shared by those living under one roof.
Family – the foundation of happiness
Nguyen Thi Huong from the northern province of Phu Tho said happiness is not defined by wealth or luxury, but by returning home each day to warmth and laughter. When people learn to cherish what they have and share with others, happiness follows naturally, she noted, adding that peace of mind brings a deep sense of fulfilment.
Huong also finds joy in small but meaningful daily acts, such as offering encouragement, helping others, or simply spreading positivity. In her view, as long as people continue to love and give, they can remain content even in challenging circumstances.
Similarly, Tran Van Dung from Bac Ninh province finds happiness in the fruits of his labour. Tending his garden and raising livestock, he said satisfaction comes not only from income but also from nurturing and watching things grow. For him, honest work, harmony with nature, and a stable family life are enough.
Such simple stories highlight that happiness is always present in daily life. During holidays and festivals, particularly the International Day of Happiness, families come together to share meaningful moments and reinforce positive values.
Since the United Nations designated March 20 as the International Day of Happiness, the global community has increasingly recognised that development is not solely about economic growth, but also about improving quality of life and inner well-being. With its strong emphasis on family and community, Vietnam has embraced this approach, underlining the importance of social policy, cohesion, and positive living.
Policies supporting well-being
In recent years, the Party and State have implemented a wide range of policies to improve living standards, including expanding access to healthcare and education, promoting cultural development, and upgrading infrastructure. National target programmes such as new-style rural development have brought about significant changes in many areas, contributing to a more prosperous and content society.
Health insurance coverage has enabled millions of disadvantaged people to access medical services, while tuition support policies have helped students continue their education. At the same time, efforts to preserve cultural heritage have enriched spiritual life and strengthened community bonds.
Currently, more than 95% of the population is covered by health insurance, and millions of students benefit from tuition support. Improved infrastructure and cultural facilities across localities have created better conditions for people to enhance both material and spiritual well-being.
These efforts demonstrate that Vietnam views happiness not only as an emotional aspiration but also as a key component of sustainable development. Social welfare, healthcare, education, gender equality, and family protection programmes all contribute to building a solid foundation for well-being.
In Vietnam, the International Day of Happiness is marked by a strong sense of community. It provides an opportunity for people to share pride in socio-economic achievements and enjoy the fruits of development, while cultural values continue to be preserved and enriched.
More importantly, the occasion serves as a reminder that amid global uncertainties, happiness can still be found in balance, love, and life’s simplest moments.
To foster happiness, individuals are encouraged to begin with small but meaningful actions, such as spending time with loved ones, practising gratitude, engaging in community activities, and maintaining a healthy work-life balance. When individuals care and share, families remain strong, and with continued support from the State, happiness will spread, forming a firm foundation for sustainable social development./.
