Study Identifies Activities Linked to Reports of Good Days in American Time Use Survey

Researchers examined data from the American Time Use Survey (ATUS), which records daily activities of tens of thousands of Americans. Respondents in the survey evaluate their day as typical or better than average. The analysis, published last month, used machine learning to identify activities and durations linked to reports of good days.

The study identified positive correlations between certain activities and positive day evaluations. Between 30 minutes and two hours of socializing, defined as activities with a social purpose, was associated with good days. Up to six hours of work, up to four hours of exercise, and five to six hours with family and friends also showed positive associations.

Beyond these durations, the correlations plateaued or declined. The study found no positive links for any amount of housework. Relaxing activities, primarily watching TV as reported by respondents, also showed no association with better-than-average days.

A researcher stated that the results do not establish causal relationships.

“We can’t conclude that any of these activities causally lead to people having better days," the researcher said. He noted that individuals reporting good days may choose activities like exercise or socializing when already feeling positive, and not everyone has equal access to preferred activities. Despite these limitations, the researcher suggested the findings could guide daily routines.

He recommended increasing time on active leisure, such as exercise and recreation, while reducing passive leisure like TV watching. The research aims to encourage consideration of time trade-offs and benefits of different activities.

The Guardian asked three writers to adjust their schedules for one day based on the study's findings.