The Happiness Lab with Dr. Laurie Santos

Grateful Expectations

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.

26:59

Creator website

Episode guests

David DeSteno

Highlights

AI Chapters

Episode notes

The Problem with New Year's Resolutions

01:20

The Effect of Gratitude on Impulsivity

01:05

Intro

4min

The Fragility of Willpower

7min

Harnessing Gratitude for Better Future Decisions

5min

The Power of Gratitude

13min

Embracing Gratitude and Wellness for a New Decade

3min

Grit and determination to change your habits can only get you so far... if you want to be happier you have to stop and think about how nice people have been to you and how nice you can be to them in return. This circle of gratitude - the science suggests - will also make you a better friend to one of the most important people in your life... your future self.

Dr Laurie Santos investigates this effect with Northeastern University's Prof David DeSteno - author of Emotional Success: The Power of Gratitude, Compassion and Pride.

For an even deeper dive into the research we talk about in the show visit happinesslab.fm

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