The Key Personality Trait for Lifelong Happiness.

Emotional stability is the personality trait most strongly linked to happiness across the lifespan, while conscientiousness is the best trait for work satisfaction and extraversion and agreeableness are most strongly linked to social satisfaction, according to a study of over 9,000 Dutch adults. The study found that personality traits remain relevant for satisfaction with life, work, and social contacts across young, middle, and older adulthood, and that personality and environment interact to influence satisfaction. Despite common beliefs, personality is capable of change, which can increase life, social, or work satisfaction.