The Happiness Lab with Dr. Laurie Santos Grateful Expectations
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Jan 13, 2020 David DeSteno, a psychology professor at Northeastern University and author of Emotional Success, dives into the transformative power of gratitude. He explains how reflecting on kindness can improve decision-making and foster healthier habits. The discussion reveals how gratitude enhances self-control, allowing for better long-term choices. DeSteno also shares practical strategies like gratitude diaries that can boost emotional well-being and deepen our connections with others—ultimately making us better friends to our future selves.
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Evolution of Self-Control
- Self-control evolved for cooperation, not for things like 401k saving.
- Moral emotions like gratitude and compassion make us selfless, improving cooperation.
Willpower Experiment
- David DeSteno's experiment offered participants $10 now or $30 in three weeks, honoring their choice.
- Most people, prioritizing immediate gratification, would take around $17 now over $100 in a year.
Gratitude's Impact on Patience
- Gratitude increased participants' willingness to wait for larger rewards later.
- Those feeling grateful valued $100 in a year at $30 now versus $17 when not feeling grateful.
