The Happiness Lab with Dr. Laurie Santos

A Silver Lining

124 snips
Oct 1, 2019
Ice skater Michelle Kwan shares her journey from Olympic hopeful to silver medalist, revealing how to find happiness despite setbacks. The discussion dives into the emotional complexities of sporting achievements, particularly for those who narrowly miss gold. Listeners learn about the power of perspective and reframing experiences as key to happiness. The podcast also touches on the dangers of social comparison, emphasizing that true fulfillment comes from personal growth and joy in the journey, rather than just accolades.
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ANECDOTE

McKayla Maroney's Silver Medal

  • At the 2012 Olympics, gymnast McKayla Maroney won silver but appeared unhappy.
  • Her 'not impressed' face became a meme, highlighting the disappointment some feel despite significant achievement.
ANECDOTE

Michelle Kwan's Olympic Upset

  • Figure skater Michelle Kwan, favored to win gold in 1998, took silver instead.
  • Despite a flawless performance, she was momentarily disappointed, a common experience for athletes with high expectations.
INSIGHT

The Agony of Silver

  • Olympians' disappointment with silver stems from a cognitive bias affecting us all.
  • We compare outcomes not just to what happened, but also to what could have happened.
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