The Glasgow Happiness Index

In the last week, a new study has put Glasgow as one of the saddest places to live in the UK. This jars with me as I think of Glasgow as one of the best places to be, especially on a sunny day. Glaswegians are known for being friendly and chatty, good at putting on a party, and like to get out and enjoy themselves. There seems to be generally a glass half full view of life.

I know that people can be grumpy and they certainly let me know if they are unhappy about the state of the place. Lack of jobs, benefit cuts, racism, littering in the streets, parking problems, and financial hardship are top of the list of concerns at the moment.

What can we do to help get us through the ups and downs of life in Glasgow? Perhaps, we should go on holiday to Orkney or the Shetland Islands to see what they get up to. How can they be so much happier? Less air pollution, a healthier environment and more of a community spirit which brings people together may provide some of the answers.

I think that we have to appreciate the opportunities that Glasgow gives us. Making the most of and taking care of our greenspaces, public parks, art galleries, musical talent, pubs and clubs is a start. We all need to build better relationships which ensure that our families, friends, neighbours and the wider community can live safely and not in fear of violence or abuse. 

I would be glad to hear anyone's views on happiness in Glasgow.

Useful link:

Measuring our national wellbeing, where we live - http://www.ons.gov.uk/ons/rel/wellbeing/measuring-national-well-being/where-we-live/index.html