The Happiness Lab with Dr. Laurie Santos

In this engaging discussion, Jordana Confino, a recovering perfectionist and law professor, tackles the challenge of high standards that can ruin happiness. She shares insights on the societal rise of perfectionism and its damaging impacts on mental health. Jordana highlights the importance of self-compassion and offers practical strategies to combat self-criticism. Listeners will appreciate her personal anecdotes and the emphasis on embracing 'good enough' to foster genuine connections and well-being.

Join a candid journey as the host confronts her own struggles with happiness. She shares her battles with perfectionism, chronic stress, and a fear of death. Through heartfelt discussions with experts and everyday people, listeners explore the path to self-discovery and growth. Prepare for an honest look at the challenges of well-being that many can relate to, and find inspiration in the quest for happiness.

In this enlightening discussion, Liz Dunn, a social psychology professor at the University of British Columbia, uncovers how acts of generosity can significantly elevate personal happiness. Joined by Chris Anderson, they explore how giving not only strengthens community bonds but also promotes well-being. Liz shares findings from innovative experiments demonstrating that altruism often surpasses reputational concerns. Their exchange inspires listeners to see generosity as a powerful tool for enhancing joy and connection in life.

Adam Grant, an organizational psychologist and bestselling author, joins Maya Shankar, a cognitive science expert and podcast host, for an enlightening discussion. They reveal how potential isn't just innate ability but can be unlocked through growth and perseverance. The duo emphasizes the significance of soft skills and character development in achieving success. They also tackle how to filter constructive feedback from the unhelpful and share personal stories on embracing imperfection to enhance relationships and foster personal growth.

Work can be stressful, but happiness shouldn't take a backseat. Discover five practical tips to enhance workplace well-being, aligning happiness with productivity. Delve into how cheerful employees can boost company profits and navigate the challenges posed by technology and economic shifts. Learn about the RAIN meditation technique for emotional awareness and the value of self-compassion. Plus, explore the power of social connections in your work life, essential for fostering a sense of belonging and reducing burnout.

Amy Blankson, author and chief evangelist at the Digital Wellness Institute, shares expert insights on achieving digital balance. She emphasizes the importance of intentional technology use and introduces the 'Really Rule' to assess screen time. Blankson discusses strategies to mitigate 'fubbing' in conversations and highlights the necessity of preserving in-person connections for mental health. The episode also offers practical advice to combat screen fatigue and encourages listeners to establish digital boundaries for a healthier work-life balance.

Karen Guggenheim, founder of the World Happiness Summit, shares her inspiring journey of transforming grief after losing her husband into a mission for spreading happiness. Clinical psychologist Edith Shiro discusses post-traumatic growth, explaining how trauma can lead to greater empathy and purpose. Both guests emphasize the importance of self-compassion and support systems, revealing how navigating adversity can enhance relationships and deepen one's appreciation for life. Discover how pain can evolve into purpose and resilience.

Dr. Rangan Chatterjee, a health education professor and the host of 'Feel Better, Live More', discusses how happiness is becoming a priority in the medical field. He emphasizes the deep connection between happiness and health, introducing a 'three-legged stool' model for well-being. The conversation covers the transformative power of self-compassion, the impact of daily habits, and the role of sensory experiences on our emotional states. Listeners are encouraged to reframe social interactions and embrace challenges as opportunities for personal growth.

Jan-Emmanuel De Neve, an Oxford economist and well-being expert, dives into the troubling decline of happiness among America's youth, especially post-COVID. He highlights alarming trends contrasting Gen Z's struggles with the rising joy seen in regions like Lithuania. The discussion includes the impact of social media on mental health and the urgent need for practical strategies to enhance community connection. De Neve also emphasizes innovative education approaches, advocating for happiness skills in curricula to empower young people toward a brighter future.

Emily Willroth, an assistant professor at Washington University in St. Louis, dives into the intriguing link between happiness and dementia. She discusses how social engagement, helping others, and fun physical activities can mitigate cognitive decline. With age as a risk factor, she emphasizes that happiness can serve as a protective factor against dementia. Willroth also highlights the importance of fostering supportive environments for older adults to enhance well-being, demonstrating that joy can indeed play a role in cognitive health.