Are You Languishing? (with sociologist Corey Keyes)
Mar 5, 2024
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Corey Keyes, a sociologist and author renowned for his work on mental health, joins Cleo Wade to discuss the nuances of languishing and flourishing. They delve into how understanding our emotions can facilitate healing and the collective experience of feeling lost. Keyes shares insights on the importance of community engagement and small acts of kindness for personal growth. The conversation also addresses the challenges posed by technology and emphasizes finding a personal 'North Star' to foster purpose and well-being.
Languishing reflects a sense of emptiness and disconnection, emphasizing the need for a broader understanding of mental well-being beyond illness.
Community engagement and authentic connections are essential for flourishing, as they foster personal growth and resilience through meaningful interactions.
Deep dives
The Power of Letting Go
Wishing for something and then releasing it can be transformative. This mindset helps individuals connect with their true intentions, allowing for personal empowerment without the constraints often imposed by words and expectations. Recognizing that our souls are limitless encourages self-discovery and growth. Embracing courageous participation in life attracts positive experiences and possibilities.
Understanding Mental Health: Languishing vs. Flourishing
Languishing is identified as a state characterized by feelings of emptiness and disconnection from meaningful experiences. In contrast, flourishing represents a higher level of mental health where individuals actively engage with their lives and feel fulfilled. The focus should shift from merely the absence of illness to a broader understanding of mental well-being, which includes community ties, a sense of purpose, and personal growth. This nuanced approach represents a significant evolution in how we conceptualize mental health.
The Importance of Community and Connection
Community engagement and connection are vital components of flourishing mental health. The act of actively participating in relationships and contributing to the well-being of others fosters fulfillment and resilience. Simple acts of support, such as listening to a friend or offering help, can create profound impacts on both personal and social well-being. This interconnectedness reveals that personal growth often arises from helping and uplifting others.
The Role of Intention in Action
The importance of intent in our actions significantly influences our overall sense of wellbeing. Engaging authentically with others through listening and showing genuine interest cultivates deeper connections and enhances one's social fabric. As individuals prioritize meaningful engagements over superficial interactions, they reap the benefits of a more fulfilled and balanced life. This highlights that flourishing is not solely a personal journey but a collective endeavor, woven through shared experiences and intentions.
Cleo Wade is joined by Corey Keyes, author of Languishing: How to Feel Alive Again in a World That Wears Us Down. In today's conversation, Keyes explains how he measures the states of languishing and flourishing, and what we get wrong about mental health. And he shares the personal story of his own search for meaning, which sparked his research all the way back in 2002.