Abstract
The chapter introduces modern perspectives on well-being, work and leisure as a context for presenting research on the importance of enjoyment for happiness and well-being, with comments on the implications for public policy. In-depth interviews show that high enjoyment , ‘optimal experience’ or ‘flow’ can occur when challenge is met with equal skill. Research using the Experience Sampling Method (ESM) shows the importance of enjoyment for well-being. A survey on happiness showing the importance of enjoyment is presented. An empirical model indicates the important role of enjoyment in well-being, linking personal and situational factors. The importance of enjoyment, visual interest and the aesthetics of everyday life for well-being is also highlighted.