28: Pandemic Happiness (with Sonja Lyubomirsky)

Is happiness research even relevant in such times of crisis, or is focusing on our happiness simply a luxury we can no longer afford? And, while effective for many people, why does the cultivation of gratitude sometimes result in unexpectedly negative consequences? Sonja Lyubomirsky joins Igor and Charles to discuss the key components of happiness, lessons from 9-11, ‘happiness-intervention fit’, Mother Teresa’s dark side, and the unexpected psychological impact of the global pandemic to date. Igor reflects on life-under-lockdown vs life in the downfall of the Soviet Union, Sonja discusses the subtle art of balancing optimism with positive action, and Charles learns that when it comes to counting one’s blessings, it pays not to count too high.

Special Guest: Sonja Lyubomirsky.

Links:

• Sonja Lyubomirsky
• Happiness-Enhancing Strategies
• How Do Simple Positive Activities Increase Well-Being? - Sonja Lyubomirsky, Kristin Layous, 2013
• The How of Happiness with Sonja Lyubomirsky, PhD, at Happiness and Its Causes 2016 - YouTube
• How to Hold on to Happiness When Your World Collapses | Psychology Today
• Performing random acts of kindness can make you happier | The Renewal Project | The Renewal Project
• The Benefits of Frequent Positive Affect: Does Happiness Lead to Success? - Lyubomirsky, King, Diener (2005)
• What Good Are Positive Emotions in Crises? A Prospective Study of Resilience and Emotions Following the Terrorist Attacks on the United States on September 11th, 2001
• The How of Happiness: A New Approach to Getting the Life You Want: Lyubomirsky, Sonja: 8601406516991: Amazon.com: Books
• The Myths of Happiness: What Should Make You Happy, but Doesn't, What Shouldn't Make You Happy, but Does: Lyubomirsky, Sonja: 9781594204371: Amazon.com: Books