Behind the Brilliance

254 Harvard Psychologist Tal Ben-Shahar's Guide to Being Happy with an Imperfect Life

47 snips
Jul 17, 2025
Tal Ben-Shahar, a Harvard-trained psychologist and bestselling author, shares insights on navigating the often-misunderstood journey to happiness. He discusses the pitfalls of achievement addiction and how embracing one's negative emotions can lead to genuine fulfillment. The impact of social media on perfectionism is explored, along with the significance of curiosity in emotional well-being. Ben-Shahar also offers practical advice for parenting and leadership in a post-pandemic world, emphasizing the importance of self-compassion and real connections.
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ANECDOTE

Personal Journey to Happiness

  • Tal Ben-Shahar switched his major from computer science to philosophy and psychology after realizing he was unhappy despite external success.
  • He wanted to answer why he wasn't happy and how he could become happier.
INSIGHT

Allowing Unhappiness

  • Rejecting or fighting painful emotions intensifies them and increases unhappiness.
  • The first step to happiness is allowing unhappiness and giving yourself permission to be human.
ADVICE

Use Curiosity to Observe Emotions

  • Accept emotions without judgment and observe them with friendly curiosity.
  • Use this approach to prevent emotions from persisting and to facilitate emotional healing.
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