Time and again, studies show that the quality of our relationships in life are one of the leading variants of emotional and physical wellbeing; more so than factors such as smoking, obesity or how much we earn.

The Harvard Study of Adult Development, spanning eight decades of research, brings this point into razor-sharp focus.

“People who are more socially connected to family, friends, and community are happier, healthier, and live longer than people who are less well connected,” says the study’s current director, psychotherapist Dr. Robert Waldinger.

It’s not just any relationships that count, though (and especially not toxic relationships, which have the opposite effect). Instead, as Brooks says, “The key is to cultivate and maintain loving, faithful relationships with other people.”

Belief, love, work: three pillars of a happy life to rethink for the year ahead