Everyday Better with Leah Smart

Engineering A Happier Life with Tal Ben-Shahar

Oct 14, 2025
Tal Ben-Shahar, a former Harvard professor and leading expert on positive psychology, shares his mission to promote societal happiness. He reveals that chasing happiness directly may be counterproductive and introduces the SPIRE model, emphasizing the importance of meaning, relationships, and emotional well-being. Tal discusses how small, sustainable habits can boost overall happiness, the concept of post-traumatic growth, and the necessity of restorative niches for recovery. He encourages valuing the journey over achievements and highlights kindness and mindfulness as key traits for a happier life.
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INSIGHT

Happiness As The Ultimate Currency

  • Happiness is the ultimate currency because other goals (money, prestige) are pursued to increase happiness.
  • Define happiness broadly to include pleasure, meaning, relationships, and kindness.
ADVICE

Start With SPIRE's Low-Hanging Fruit

  • Use the SPIRE model to target multiple well-being domains: spiritual, physical, intellectual, relational, emotional.
  • Focus on one area at a time and pick the lowest-hanging fruit to start consistently.
ADVICE

Pick A Keystone Habit You Enjoy

  • Choose a keystone habit (like exercise or gratitude) that positively affects other SPIRE areas.
  • Pick your favorite form of the habit so you sustain it long-term.
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