Shigehiro Oishi: Embracing the Unfamiliar to Forge Deeper Lives and Thriving Teams

 

 

We’re thrilled to welcome Shigehiro Oishi, renowned psychologist and University of Chicago professor, whose groundbreaking research on well-being has reshaped how we understand a fulfilling life.

As the author of Life in Three Dimensions: How Curiosity, Exploration, and Experience Make a Fuller, Better Life, Oishi introduces a transformative framework that adds “psychological richness”—a life enriched by diverse, novel, and challenging experiences—to the traditional pillars of happiness and meaning.

His work, backed by decades of his own rigorous research, makes him the perfect guest to explore how curiosity and exploration can deepen personal lives and revolutionize leadership. This episode is a must-listen for anyone seeking a more vibrant life not to mention innovative ways to inspire their teams.

Oishi defines psychological richness as experiences that spark curiosity, push boundaries, and foster growth – distinct from happiness, which arises from frequent, small positive social interactions and close relationships, and meaning, which stems from purpose and coherence. By embracing the unfamiliar—by choosing to experience new, unique and even risky moments—individuals unlock a fuller life, with the journey itself becoming its greatest reward. For listeners, this episode offers a dual promise: tools to enrich your personal life and strategies to transform how you lead.

Leaders will learn why prioritizing micro-moments of connection—like casual check-ins or team celebrations—boosts employee happiness more than rare wins like promotions or annual galas. Oishi explains how fostering psychological richness, through new challenges or creative projects, enhances commitment, creativity, and resilience. He shares how to create safe environments where employees feel empowered to step outside their comfort zones, turning risk-taking into growth without fear.

We also discuss Oishi’s powerful insight that focusing on others’ happiness inherently boosts our own – offering leaders a blueprint for supporting employee growth, belonging and achievement.

This isn’t just a conversation about personal fulfillment—it’s a guide for leaders to create environments where employees thrive through connection, growth, and exploration. Tune in to discover how Life in Three Dimensions can transform your life and leadership. Shigehiro Oishi’s blend of cutting-edge science and practical wisdom will inspire you to embrace curiosity, foster meaningful connections, and lead with purpose, unlocking remarkable benefits for yourself and your team.

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