The Happiness Lab with Dr. Laurie Santos Why Being Grateful Makes Us Feel Great (A Thanksgiving Re-run)
Nov 24, 2025
David DeSteno, a psychology professor at Northeastern University, explores the profound impacts of gratitude on our well-being. He discusses how gratitude can boost self-control and alter our future-oriented thinking, making us more patient and thoughtful. The conversation dives into practical ways to cultivate gratitude, including daily reflections and teamwork exercises like the reciprocity ring. DeSteno highlights how gratitude not only fosters personal success but also enhances our relationships with others, creating a pay-it-forward cycle of kindness.
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Host's Future-Self Confession
- Laurie describes how she consistently sabotages her future self with impulsive choices and missed responsibilities.
- She frames the problem as a need to stop using willpower and instead build habits that protect Future Laurie.
Willpower Is A Fragile Strategy
- Willpower is fragile and acting like a constant restraint creates chronic stress that can harm health.
- Relying on grit alone can improve short-term performance but accelerate biological aging, David DeSteno argues.
Moral Emotions Support Long-Term Success
- Moral emotions evolved to promote cooperation and long-term success, not just momentary restraint.
- Gratitude, compassion, and authentic pride make people more willing to forego immediate rewards.
