Sonja Lyubomirsky

Dr. Sonja Lyubomirsky, a leading happiness researcher and bestselling author, dives into the science behind finding joy. She discusses the importance of connection, gratitude, and kindness, revealing practical strategies to enhance happiness. The conversation also explores the surprising role of psychedelics, like MDMA, in emotional growth and interpersonal relationships. Additionally, she challenges the myths surrounding happiness and shares insights on the complex interplay between genetics, personal agency, and the pursuit of well-being.

Sonja Lyubomirsky, a leading happiness researcher, dives deep into the science of happiness. She shares surprising insights on what truly enhances well-being, revealing the significance of meaningful relationships over money. The discussion covers the transformative impact of kindness, the complexities of romance, and the therapeutic use of psychedelics for emotional struggles. They explore how self-care and emotional diversity play a role in joy, while also addressing the nuanced challenges of parenthood and the pursuit of personal goals.

Today we welcome Sonja Lyubomirsky who is a distinguished Professor of Psychology at the University of California, Riverside. Originally from Russia, she received her A.B., summa cum laude, from Harvard University and her Ph.D. in Social/Personality Psychology from Stanford University. Her research has been featured in hundreds of magazines, newspapers, shows and documentaries in North America, South America, Asia, Australia, and Europe. Dr. Lyubomirsky’s best-selling books The How of Happiness and The Myths of Happiness have been published and translated in over 16 countries.In this episode, I talk to Sonja Lyubomirsky about happiness. Across all of her research, Dr. Lyubomirsky has found that connection is what makes people happy. So then, how do we form high-quality connections? Dr. Lyubomirsky gives us insight on how to use kindness, reciprocity, and gratitude to maintain and strengthen our relationships. We also touch on the topics of psychedelics, interpersonal chemistry, and social media.Website: drsonja.netTwitter: @slyubomirsky Topics01:38 Sonja’s interest in happiness research03:56 The Happiness Pie Chart07:55 The Set-point Theory of Happiness10:42 Connection is the key to happiness15:19 Are extroverts happier? 20:12 Psychedelic social psychology25:25 The Happiness Boomerang Effect29:58 What makes for great conversation?34:16 High-quality connections36:47 How to create interpersonal chemistry42:44 Can you count too many blessings?45:27 Apps that make us happy and unhappy 51:39 Kindness boosts immunitySee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dr. Sonja Lyubomirsky, a distinguished psychology professor, shares remarkable insights on how we can enhance our happiness. She discusses the balance between genetics and our active choices in fostering joy. The impact of social media on young adults' happiness is alarming, revealing a significant decline in well-being. Sonja also explores the role of emotional connections, even with AI companions, and dispels myths about hedonic adaptation, emphasizing that experiences trumps material possessions when it comes to lasting fulfillment.

Dr. Sonja Lyubomirsky, a distinguished professor and authority on happiness, dives into the science behind well-being. She shares how cultural factors, gratitude, and kindness influence happiness even on a genetic level. The discussion highlights the surprising impact of meaningful spending, psychological barriers like rumination, and the transformative potential of psychedelics for mental health. Additionally, she emphasizes the importance of authentic connections and how technology may help combat loneliness in our modern age.

Social psychologist Sonja Lyubomirsky shares insights on happiness interventions and how changing habits can boost happiness levels. Topics include genetic predispositions, Scandinavian happiness rankings, power of gratitude and social connections, and personalized interventions for mood enhancement.

Steve Siebold and Sonja Lyubomirsky share wisdom on goal obsession, emphasizing the importance of written goals. They discuss the power of daily journaling for goal achievement and well-being, compared to yearly resolutions.

We all think we know what will make us happy: more money. A better job. Love. But psychologist Sonja Lyubomirsky says happiness doesn't necessarily work like that. This week, we explore why happiness often slips through our fingers, and how to savor — and stretch out — our joys. If you like our work, please consider supporting it! See how you can help at support.hiddenbrain.org. And to learn more about human behavior and ideas that can improve your life, subscribe to our newsletter at news.hiddenbrain.org.

Sonja Lyubomirsky, a distinguished professor at UC Riverside, dives into her extensive research on happiness. She emphasizes the crucial role of social connections and kindness in enhancing well-being. Sonja shares practical strategies for fostering relationships and highlights the benefits of in-person interactions over digital connections. She also discusses cultural differences in expressions of happiness, reflecting on her own immigration experiences. Ultimately, listeners are encouraged to prioritize connection and gratitude to improve their happiness.

Sonja Lyubomirsky, a Professor of Psychology at UC Riverside and bestselling author, discusses the science of happiness. She debunks common myths about what truly makes us happy, emphasizing the significance of personal engagement in our happiness journey. Sonja explores how targeted strategies can enhance well-being, particularly in workplace environments. She also highlights the importance of social interactions and offers insights into balancing positivity with productivity for lasting happiness.