The Pursuit of Eudaimonia: Examining Life's Meaning and Purpose

Living a life of eudaimonia, or human flourishing, is a key focus discussed in this podcast episode. The importance of examining one's own life and finding meaning and purpose is highlighted. The guest shares their experience of writing a master's thesis on eudaimonia and its contrast with the pursuit of happiness. They emphasize that true happiness comes from fulfilling one's potential and focusing on quality relationships and experiences, rather than solely pursuing wealth or material possessions. The dangers of getting caught in the hedonic treadmill and the impact of social media on happiness are explored. The discussion also emphasizes the role of self-determination, having goals, and the significance of finding enjoyable and meaningful work. The Genuine Progress Indicator is mentioned as an alternative measure to Gross Domestic Product (GDP) to assess overall well-being and life satisfaction. The episode concludes with reflections on the importance of examining one's own life, aiming for eudaimonia, and finding balance in pursuing a fulfilling and meaningful existence.