But why does this happen? The researchers suggest that morning positivity could be tied to several factors, such as waking up refreshed, having a nutritious breakfast, or engaging in morning activities like exercise.

These activities contribute to what scientists call hedonic well-being the kind of happiness that comes from pleasant, momentary experiences. Hedonic vs. eudemonic well-being: two sides of happiness.

To truly understand how time impacts our mood, it’s essential to differentiate between two types of well-being: Hedonic well-being: This refers to the fleeting moments of joy we experience like enjoying a cup of coffee, watching a funny video, or spending time with friends.

Hedonic vs. eudemonic well-being: two sides of happiness

Hedonic well-being: Refers to moments of joy, such as savouring a cup of coffee, watching a humorous video, or socialising with friends.

Eudemonic well-being: This type of happiness is deeper and more long-term, encompassing actions that align with our values and lead to fulfilment. Think of activities like therapy, reflecting on personal growth, or showing gratitude to loved ones.

Both forms of well-being play a crucial role in our overall happiness, and the study highlights how time of day influences these experiences.

What can we learn from this study? Whether you’re a student cramming for exams, a professional rushing to meet deadlines, or a parent juggling multiple responsibilities, the 3pm low can feel unavoidable.

However, understanding why this happens can help us take proactive steps to combat it. For example: Start your day with intention to start your day right.

The morning is when our mood is naturally at its highest, making it the perfect time to tackle important tasks, exercise, or reflect on personal goals.

To maximise happiness early on, aim for 7 to 9 hours of quality sleep to wake up refreshed. Sleep deprivation is closely linked to irritability and lower happiness levels.