The Political Dynamics of Happiness and Joy. On this, we aren’t as divided as you might think.

September 25, 2024

In challenging times, it’s easy to focus on the things that divide us—our political leanings, our views on the future of the country, or how we feel about leadership. But amid all the noise, something powerful unites us: the joy we experience in everyday life.

Our latest national survey, conducted with 3,000 Canadians, reveals that despite the mood of uncertainty in the country, the vast majority of Canadians still find moments of happiness and joy in their daily lives and the sources of happiness are as varied as the people who call our country home.

Let’s start with the good news: 87% of Canadians experience moments of joy at least a few times a week, and many do so daily.

Whether it’s spending time with family and friends, being outdoors in nature, or listening to music, Canadians continue to find joy in the simple pleasures of life. While the current political climate may seem bleak, joy is a common thread that connects people across age groups, genders, and even political affiliations.

Where Do Canadians Find Joy?

When asked what brings joy to their lives, the most popular response was “spending time with family and friends,” with over half (54%) saying it brings them a great deal of happiness. It’s clear that, despite political differences, Canadians value their personal relationships. Being outdoors in nature also scored highly, with 39% of Canadians finding great joy in natural surroundings, which might explain why parks and outdoor spaces remain so beloved across the country. Music, hobbies, and pets were other frequent sources of joy.

Interestingly, joy is also a multipartisan affair. Whether Liberal or Conservative, NDP or Bloc supporters, the results showed remarkably little difference in what brings happiness to people’s lives. For example, 57% of Conservative supporters and 55% of Liberal supporters said spending time with family and friends brought them joy. Nature, music, and hobbies followed similar patterns, with only slight variations by political affiliation. It seems that no matter which party Canadians align with, the things that make life joyful remain constant.

Generational Joy: What Makes Different Age Groups Happy?

There are, of course, some generational differences in what brings joy to people’s lives. Younger Canadians (under 45) are more likely to find joy in activities like listening to music (42%), engaging in hobbies (40%), and playing games (26%). Meanwhile, older Canadians (45 and over) are more likely to find happiness in quieter activities such as spending time outdoors (41%) or reading books (24%).

But no matter the generation, the essence of joy remains the same: personal connections, engagement in meaningful activities, and appreciation of the world around us. Older Canadians may be more satisfied overall with their level of joy—77% of those aged 60 and over say they are satisfied with the joy they experience in life—but the data shows that all age groups are finding moments of happiness in their own ways.

Are Canadians Satisfied with the Amount of Joy in Their Lives?

Despite the often gloomy tone surrounding the state of the nation, two-thirds of Canadians (66%) are satisfied with the amount of joy and happiness they experience in their lives. This is an encouraging number, showing that while people may be concerned about the broader political and economic environment, their personal lives still bring them contentment. The most satisfied group? Older Canadians, with 77% of those over 60 expressing satisfaction.

Political Divides Fade When It Comes to Joy & Happiness

One of the most encouraging findings of the survey is that joy knows no political boundaries. While Canadians may have sharp differences of opinion on the direction of the country, their sources of happiness are remarkably similar. For example, when looking at satisfaction with the amount of joy in their lives, 79% of Conservative supporters and 72% of Liberal supporters say they are satisfied. These are high numbers, especially considering the deep political divides on other issues.

This lack of division is important. It reminds us that while the news often highlights our differences, Canadians have more in common than we might think. Joy, in many ways, acts as a unifying force. Whether it’s a shared love of nature, time spent with loved ones, or the comfort of a familiar hobby, these moments of happiness cut across the political spectrum.

A Glass-Half-Full Perspective

In a time when nearly 90% of Canadians want to see a change in government, and approval ratings are at all-time lows, it can be easy to dwell on the negatives. But if there’s one thing this survey shows, it’s that Canadians are still finding ways to live joyful, fulfilling lives. Whether it’s through spending time with loved ones, enjoying the great outdoors, or engaging in personal passions, moments of happiness are woven into the fabric of daily life, regardless of politics.

As someone who likes to see the glass as half full, I find this deeply reassuring. Everything we do—whether it’s in politics, business, or public life—should aim to help people live more joyful lives. And while government decisions and policies have a significant impact on our day-to-day experiences, they don’t define the whole picture. At the end of the day, joy comes from human connections, from moments of peace and reflection, and from doing what we love.

The Upshot: More Than Just Politics

In an era of political polarization, it’s easy to forget that the real goal of policy-making should be to improve people’s lives. This survey reminds us that, even amid political turbulence, Canadians are finding joy in the everyday. The absence of significant political division on what brings happiness is perhaps one of the most heartening aspects of the data. It shows that, despite our differences, we share a common desire for happiness, peace, and connection.

So, while the mood in Canada may be uncertain, one thing is clear: joy is alive and well in the hearts of Canadians. And as we continue to navigate the challenges ahead, let’s remember that fostering joy—whether through the policies we support or the relationships we nurture—should be at the centre of everything we do. After all, a happy life is a good life, and isn’t that what we all want?

In the end, it’s these moments of joy that bring us together, reminding us that there’s always something to be optimistic about. And as we look to the future, it’s that shared experience of joy that will continue to bind us as a country.

Methodology

The survey was conducted with 2,964 Canadian adults from September 5 to 12, 2024. A random sample of panelists were invited to complete the survey from a set of partner panels based on the Lucid exchange platform. These partners are typically double opt-in survey panels, blended to manage out potential skews in the data from a single source.

The margin of error for a comparable probability-based random sample of the same size is +/- 1.8%, 19 times out of 20.

The data were weighted according to census data to ensure that the sample matched Canada’s population according to age, gender, educational attainment, and region. Totals may not add up to 100 due to rounding.

This survey was paid for by Abacus Data Inc.

Abacus Data follows the CRIC Public Opinion Research Standards and Disclosure Requirements that can be found here: https://canadianresearchinsightscouncil.ca/standards/

ABOUT ABACUS DATA

We are Canada’s most sought-after, influential, and impactful polling and market research firm. We are hired by many of North America’s most respected and influential brands and organizations.

We use the latest technology, sound science, and deep experience to generate top-flight research-based advice to our clients. We offer global research capacity with a strong focus on customer service, attention to detail, and exceptional value.

And we are growing throughout all parts of Canada and the United States and have capacity for new clients who want high quality research insights with enlightened hospitality.

Our record speaks for itself: we were one of the most accurate pollsters conducting research during the 2021 Canadian election following up on our outstanding record in the 2019, 2015, and 2011 federal elections.

Find out more about how we can help your organization by downloading our corporate profile and service offering.