In the state where football fans are ride or die, the food is seasoned to perfection, and social drinking is encouraged, how is Sportsman's Paradise not so paradise-like? From the outside looking in, it might seem like Louisiana is the place to go to let your hair down. Well, the writers at WalletHub are here to let us know that we're not so happy.
According to WalletHub's recent findings in their report titled "2021's Happiest States in America," Louisiana ranks a disheartening 48th. At least we can say we're slightly happier than Arkansas and West Virginia. Now you're probably thinking, "How can these finance writers determine the happiness of each state?" "What defines happiness?" With vaccinations on the rise and the outside world being more accessible, one would think we'd have reason to celebrate and be happier, but that's not the case. There are many factors examined to come to a consensus like this.
WalletHub analyzes three environmental factors that contributes to a person's well-being and life satisfaction. Emotional and physical well-being, work environment, community, and environment can either fuel or drain the happiness we experience on a daily basis. "Happiness is more than a feeling of joy or excitement. It relies on various aspects of a person's life—from emotional well-being to job satisfaction," WalletHub writer Adam McCann said.
The infographic that WalletHub provides shows each state and where they rank in terms of overall happiness. The results show points ranging from 1-50, with number one being the happiest. Findings show that the top three happiest states are Utah, Minnesota, and Hawaii. Now, let's break down Louisiana's results. For emotional and physical well-being, 44 out of 50 points were accrued. Work environment ranked 50 out of 50, while community and environment ranked slightly better with results showing 28 out of 50.
Okay, so we get the statistics but what exactly do these categories mean and what roles do they play? The study measures 31 metrics that analyzes where states rank in terms of depression, sleep rates, suicide rates, work hours, income, safety, and more. According to WalletHub's results, Louisiana ranks 49th in the least safe states, 47th in highest divorce rates, 48th in lowest income growth, and tied with Kentucky for 47th place in lowest sports participation rates.
WalletHub's findings may not be ideal for Louisiana natives, but it definitely gives perspective on the things we need to take care of in our personal lives. In order for us to sustain happiness is, by having a place where folks feel safe, income is sustainable and good health is encouraged. Statistics like this can promote lifestyle reflection and even challenge those in the workplace, as well as the local government, for better wages and conditions. We may rank poorly in terms of overall happiness, but it doesn't mean we have to stay this way.
To read the full study, go to wallethub.com.
