The 7 The Optimist: Can you choose to be happy?
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Jan 2, 2026 Filmmaker Atdhe Trepca, known for his viral 'Are You Happy?' documentary series, joins Dr. Fuchsia Sirwa, a social and health psychology professor, to dive into the concept of happiness. Atdhe shares insights from his journey interviewing strangers about their happiness, revealing the power of reframing negatives and noticing small joys. Dr. Sirwa discusses how optimism can be cultivated and its motivating effects on actions. They explore gratitude practices as tools for fostering joy and the idea that happiness can indeed be a choice.
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From Quit Job To Global Question
- Atdhe Trepca quit his job and traveled asking strangers "Are you happy?" for years, filming the answers that went viral on social platforms.
- The project evolved into a documentary and nonprofit supporting other organizations' work.
A Question That Forces Reflection
- Asking someone "Are you happy?" interrupts their routine and makes them inventory life, revealing how they define their happiness.
- People often choose in that moment whether current details make them happy or unhappy.
Happiest People Know Hardship
- Atdhe says the happiest people he's met often endured the worst hardships but processed them and found ways to move forward.
- He believes happiness usually coexists with sadness and grows from processing pain.