We Can Do Hard Things 62. The Big Lies & the Truth About Happiness with Dr. Laurie Santos
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Jan 18, 2022 
Dr. Laurie Santos, a Yale professor and expert on human cognition, discusses the surprising truths about happiness. She reveals how our misconceptions about happiness being linked to external circumstances often lead to dissatisfaction. The conversation covers the importance of shifting our thoughts to improve well-being and the phenomenon of hedonic adaptation, where we quickly acclimate to positive changes. Santos emphasizes the need for emotional intelligence and finding joy in everyday moments, challenging the societal pressures of 'toxic positivity'.
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Circumstances vs. Happiness
- Circumstances don't determine happiness.
- People with great circumstances can be miserable, while those in tough situations find resilience.
Happiness Habits
- Prioritize social connections and acts of service.
- Cultivate gratitude and presence instead of focusing on self-care.
Hedonic Adaptation
- Hedonic adaptation means we get used to both good and bad experiences.
- We adapt faster to negative emotions, making us more resilient than we realize.
