It is a revelation that can surprise more than one. A survey of more than 3,000 French people highlights an unexpected truth: for a majority, well-being does not go through health or the bank account, but through happiness and pleasure. A much more emotional than medical or material definition, far from popular belief. However, health, financial means and love life are essential components in this personal quest for balance.
What is well-being for the French today?
Officially, the Larousse dictionary talks about a “pleasant condition resulting from the satisfaction of the needs of the body and the calm of the mind“. But this definition, as clear as it may be, is only a starting point. This survey, orchestrated by the Naturavignon laboratory, reveals that for 57 % of the French interviewed in May 2024, well-being rhymes above all. Not the one who bought, but the one we feel.
Another strong indicator: pleasure. This word frequently returns to participants’ responses, often placed before health (51 %) or financial resources (48 %). To be happy, for the French is first to live pleasant moments, to feel good in your body and your mind.
The other priorities mentioned confirm this hedonistic approach: do not suffer (47 %), be with the loved one (42 %), no longer have problems (36 %), feel good about yourself (30 %), lead a fulfilling life (22 %) or even be free (16 %).
Access well-being: learning, not a privilege
Unlike a widespread idea, this state of fullness is not perceived as innate. It is not enough to be lucky or to “positive” to reach well-being. According to the survey, 89 % of French people think that he can learn. And for more than half of them (54 %), it is even essential to be accompanied in this process.
Life coaches, sophrologists, practitioners in alternative medicine … The French are asking for more and more experts to learn “gestures of happiness”, these routines or reflexes that can transform everyday life. Moreover, several scientific studies go in the same direction: well-being is a skill, which is cultivated as a habit.
Among the privileged means to achieve this, respondents frequently evoke food supplements, massages, yoga or personal or therapeutic coaching sessions.
Does well-being have a price?
It may be one of the most striking figures in this survey. 52 % of French people say they spend each month between 120 and 150 euros for their personal well-being. Conversely, only 6 % say they do not want to exceed 50 euros monthly. This figure illustrates the importance that the French attach to this notion, which goes far beyond simple luxury or comfort. This is a real emotional and physical investment. A form of priority in a world often perceived as uncertain, stressful, sometimes anxiety -provoking. Well-being becomes a vital resource, which everyone tries to reach in their own way.
Whether it is meditating in the morning, eating better, moving away from screens or consulting a professional, the trend is clear: happiness is no longer an abstract purpose. It has become a concrete, defined, measurable objective … and more and more shared.