The Kevin Rose Show

Why More Will Never Make You Happy with Arthur Brooks (#59)

May 28, 2024

Arthur Brooks, a Harvard professor and social scientist, dives into the science of happiness, revealing that true joy comes from a blend of experiences, both positive and negative. He discusses the hedonic treadmill and offers practical strategies for lasting fulfillment, emphasizing that money can reduce unhappiness but isn't a guarantee for happiness. Brooks also explores the importance of meaningful relationships, the effects of social media on well-being, and how a balance of enjoyment and purpose leads to genuine satisfaction in life.

01:38:56

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Episode guests

Arthur Brooks

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Quick takeaways

Material possessions provide fleeting joy, with true happiness stemming from meaningful practices that enhance enjoyment, satisfaction, and balance in life.

Embracing discomfort and negative emotions is vital for personal growth, as overcoming adversity often leads to profound self-awareness and understanding.

Cultivating mindfulness by minimizing smartphone use during waiting periods encourages individuals to engage fully with their surroundings and appreciate life.

Transcendent experiences, whether through spirituality or connecting with nature, significantly enhance personal happiness by fostering a sense of purpose and connection.

Deep dives

The Pursuit of Happiness

Many individuals mistakenly believe that material possessions, such as luxury watches, will bring lasting joy. In reality, only a small fraction of people, about 25%, find true happiness from these acquisitions. Research shows that the happiest individuals engage in practices that promote enjoyment, satisfaction, and meaning in life. Achieving a balance of these three elements through consistent personal practices is essential for genuine fulfillment.

Intro

4min

The Psychology of Watch Collecting

10min

Faith and Fulfillment: Bridging Beliefs

7min

Mindful Mornings

4min

Exploring Cold Plunges and Saunas: Health Benefits and Concerns

2min

Transforming Life with Entrepreneurial Mindset and Balanced Fitness

4min

Daily Goals and Emotional Well-Being

9min

The Interplay of Happiness and Suffering

21min

Navigating Connection in a Digital Age

19min

10.

The Pursuit of Happiness and Money

24min

Stop chasing happiness, start cultivating it, and here is how! Kevin sits down with Arthur Brooks, a renowned social scientist and Harvard professor to talk about the science of happiness. Arthur discusses the elusive nature of happiness, explaining how evolutionary biology and societal expectations shape our pursuit of joy. They cover the concept of the hedonic treadmill, practical strategies to achieve lasting fulfillment, and the four principles of happiness. They also discuss five things you can do with money to increase happiness. Lastly, Arthur emphasizes that true happiness comes from a balance of enjoyment, satisfaction, and meaning, all of which require embracing both positive and negative experiences.

Guest Bio and Links:

Arthur C. Brooks is the Parker Gilbert Montgomery Professor of the Practice of Public and Nonprofit Leadership at the Harvard Kennedy School, and Professor of Management Practice at the Harvard Business School, where he teaches courses on leadership and happiness. Brooks is the author of 13 books, including the 2023 #1 New York Times bestseller Build the Life You Want: The Art and Science of Getting Happier with co-author Oprah Winfrey.

Listeners can learn more about Arthur Brooks at his website, on IG @arthurcbrooks, and X @arthurbrooks

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Resources:

The Anxious Generation by Jonathan Haidt

Mark Manson, The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*ck

The Miracle of Mindfulness by Thich Nhat Hanh

The Awakened Brain by Lisa Miller

Dopamine Nation by Dr. Anna Lembke