Having fun can absolutely increase happiness in the short term. It releases endorphins and provides a break from stress, leading to immediate feelings of well-being.
However, studying, while often less immediately enjoyable, can lead to long-term happiness. Success in studies can unlock opportunities for a better career, financial security, and personal growth, all of which contribute to lasting happiness. The sense of accomplishment from mastering a challenging subject can also be incredibly rewarding.
The key is balance. A life solely focused on studying without any fun will likely lead to burnout and unhappiness. Similarly, a life solely focused on fun without any productive activities will likely lead to a lack of fulfillment and potential regret later on.
Ultimately, happiness is best achieved through a healthy balance of both productive activities like studying and enjoyable leisure activities. Finding ways to make studying more engaging (e.g., studying with friends, using fun learning techniques) can also help bridge the gap between enjoyment and academic success.