Something You Should Know
Why Thinking Is Not All In Your Head & Secrets From the Longest Study of Happiness - SYSK Choice
Feb 1, 2025
Annie Murphy Paul, a renowned science writer and author of "The Extended Mind," dives into how our thinking extends beyond the brain, highlighting the role of gestures and surroundings in cognitive processes. She explores the benefits of unconventional thinking methods. Robert J. Waldinger, a Harvard psychiatrist and director of the longest study on happiness, shares insights into how meaningful relationships shape emotional well-being and longevity. Their discussions bridge the gap between cognition, environment, and the essence of happiness.
50:59
Episode guests
AI Summary
AI Chapters
Episode notes
Podcast summary created with Snipd AI
Quick takeaways
- Humans possess an inherent desire for novelty, which drives exploration but can lead to challenges in maintaining sustained interest over time.
- Strong and reliable relationships are crucial for health and happiness, emphasizing the importance of social connections in managing life's stresses.
Deep dives
The Insatiable Appetite for Novelty
Human beings have an innate drive to seek out novelty, a trait that can be traced back to survival instincts from early human history. This desire for change often leads to quick boredom with new experiences, as demonstrated in research where even newborns show a preference for new stimuli after a brief exposure. Notably, about 15% of individuals are thrill-seekers eager for constant change, while a similar percentage prefers stability, with the majority falling somewhere in between. Understanding where one fits on this novelty-seeking spectrum can help individuals appreciate their own preferences without judgment.
Remember Everything You Learn from Podcasts
Save insights instantly, chat with episodes, and build lasting knowledge - all powered by AI.
