Numerous studies have shown that happiness is influenced by a multitude of factors, including educational attainment, lifestyle choices, and economic circumstances. Education, for instance, is often linked to greater life satisfaction and happiness, as it not only enhances cognitive abilities but also provides individuals with access to better job opportunities and higher incomes. In turn, higher incomes can afford individuals greater opportunities for leisure and the pursuit of personal interests, both of which have been shown to increase overall well-being.

Lifestyle choices, such as physical activity, social engagement, and meaningful relationships, have also been found to play a significant role in shaping happiness levels. Engaging in regular physical activity has been associated with increased levels of happiness and life satisfaction, as it releases endorphins and reduces stress levels. Social engagement, whether through community involvement or meaningful relationships, has been shown to promote feelings of belonging and social support, leading to greater life satisfaction and overall happiness.

Economic circumstances, too, have been found to impact happiness levels. While a certain level of income is necessary to meet basic needs, research suggests that once a threshold has been met, additional income does not necessarily equate to greater happiness. However, economic factors such as job security and financial stability have been shown to be positively associated with life satisfaction and happiness, providing individuals with a sense of security and stability that can enhance overall well-being.

Overall, it is clear that happiness is a complex construct that is influenced by a range of factors, including education, lifestyle choices, and economic circumstances. Understanding the connection between these factors can help individuals and policymakers identify strategies for enhancing overall well-being and promoting greater happiness.

My audience is primarily policymakers, as they have the power to make changes and implement policies that can positively impact people's lives and increase overall happiness. Policymakers can use the insights gained from this to identify areas of improvement and implement targeted interventions that promote greater well-being, such as increasing access to education and healthcare, improving job security, and promoting social support networks. Additionally, happier individuals are more likely to be productive and engaged in their work, which can have a positive impact on the economy and society as a whole. Therefore, it is essential that policymakers prioritize happiness and well-being in their decision-making processes to create a more prosperous and content society. 

In analyzing my data, I made several assumptions. Firstly, I assumed that the data collected is accurate and reliable, as inaccurate data can lead to incorrect conclusions and undermine the validity of the study. I got most of my data from government or organizational sources to prevent that. Secondly, I assumed that the sample used in the study is representative of the larger population, meaning that the individuals selected for the study are a fair and unbiased representation of the broader group of interest. 

My process of analyzing happiness data involves several key steps. First, I had to find data relating to happiness. However, there was no one data set that had everything that I wanted to examine so I compiled my own data set for each state using data collected from 2021.  Next, I followed the data visualization process. After the data has been analyzed, I created visualizations to explain my findings.