THE SHOW
Dr. Tal Ben-Shahar, Harvard-trained psychologist and author of multiple bestsellers including Happier, joins Lisa to explore the psychology and habits that lead to happiness in modern times. He uncovers the myths that keep successful people miserable and why our pursuit of the next achievement isn’t the answer. He shares his personal journey from academic achievement to profound unhappiness, breaks down the difference between experiencing emotions and being consumed by them, and offers a counterintuitive approach to emotional health through passive observation. The conversation covers everything from the achievement trap and social media's impact on happiness to practical parenting strategies and the future of leadership in a post-pandemic world.
Behind his brilliance: Curiosity and passionate effort
Visit BehindtheBrilliance.com for the show notes
TOPICS COVERED
Why successful people often feel secretly empty
The myth of constant happiness and toxic positivity culture
Passive observation: witnessing emotions without being consumed by them
The psychology of "enough" and escaping achievement addiction
Why fighting your feelings makes them persist
The role of curiosity in emotional wellbeing and personal growth
Social media's impact on perfectionism and life satisfaction
How to create space between stimulus and response during overwhelming moments
The difference between hard work and effort in personal development
Turning emotional dissatisfaction into positive life changes
Modern loneliness epidemic and the paradox of digital connection
Building authentic relationships based on values rather than demographics
The symbiotic relationship between leadership and management
Why power and control are ineffective leadership tools
Parenting strategies for raising emotionally intelligent children
The importance of modeling emotional regulation for kids
How to develop discipline without relying on motivation or willpower
Why retirement isn't the answer to work dissatisfaction
The value of experimentation and changing periods to question marks in life
