10% Happier with Dan Harris

Dr. Robert Waldinger, a Harvard psychiatrist and director of the longest scientific study on happiness, shares insightful lessons on well-being. He discusses the crucial role of social connections in achieving lasting happiness and why you can't be happy all the time. Waldinger emphasizes the idea of 'social fitness' and the importance of sharing worries rather than shouldering them alone. He also highlights the transformative power of friendships at work and reassures listeners that it’s never too late to find happiness.

Spencer Sherman, the founding CEO of Abacus and certified mindfulness teacher, shares transformative insights on merging Buddhism with finance. He discusses the Four Brahma Viharas for healthier money relationships and introduces the RAIN technique to alleviate financial anxiety. Sherman emphasizes the 'Enough Practice' for achieving equanimity and how generosity fosters a sense of abundance. He also explores the potential for ethical investing guided by personal values, encouraging listeners to cultivate self-compassion and a mindful approach to money.

Morgan Housel, author of 'The Psychology of Money' and partner at the Collaborative Fund, dives deep into the complex relationship between money and happiness. He distinguishes between being rich and being wealthy, emphasizing the importance of understanding what 'enough' truly means. Housel explains that financial success relies more on behavior than intelligence and shares how personal experiences shape our financial perspectives. The conversation encourages listeners to balance wealth with true contentment and manage expectations around money.

Richard Davidson, an eminent scientist and longtime confidant of the Dalai Lama, dives deep into the nuances of meditation. He shares insights on single-pointed versus analytical meditation, and the significance of subtle awareness in understanding consciousness. The discussion also highlights how mindfulness practices can be used throughout life and even in moments of death. Davidson breaks down complex terms to make the teachings accessible, emphasizing the transformative power of awareness and compassion in our everyday lives.

Joining the conversation is Richie Davidson, a renowned neuroscientist specializing in positive emotions and meditation, and a close collaborator with the Dalai Lama. Together, they delve into the complex idea of reincarnation, exploring how ancient Buddhist teachings intersect with modern neuroscience. The emotional impact of the Dalai Lama's compassion is palpable, with team members moved to tears during their encounter. The dialogue highlights the influence of compassion on genetics and personal happiness, setting the stage for deeper reflections on spirituality and human connection.

Join Dr. Richard Davidson, a renowned neuroscientist and founder of the Center for Healthy Minds, as he explores the concept of 'wise selfishness' alongside insights from His Holiness the Dalai Lama. They delve into how to effectively handle anger and manage adversarial relationships. Davidson shares a rare encounter where the Dalai Lama expressed anger towards him, illustrating the balance between compassion and emotional intelligence. The conversation highlights the profound impact of mindfulness and altruism on personal happiness and mental well-being.

In this engaging conversation, Dr. Richard J. Davidson, a leading neuroscientist and collaborator with the Dalai Lama, dives into profound issues of social connection. They discuss how the Dalai Lama's surprising acts of compassion can help us combat loneliness and enhance our social fitness in today's fractured world. The episode also addresses the complexities of grief, the balance between sorrow and humor, and practical strategies to foster compassion in our daily lives. Plus, there's a light-hearted moment that illustrates the Dalai Lama's playful nature!

Join a captivating journey to Dharamsala, where a unique exploration of happiness with the Dalai Lama unfolds. Discover how compassion can thrive amid global challenges like climate change and terrorism. Reflect on the balance between kindness and practicality when faced with difficult interactions. Hear young activists challenge the Dalai Lama’s teachings and explore deep metaphysical concepts, including rebirth. This immersive experience combines personal insights and spiritual wisdom, inviting listeners to cultivate true happiness through connection.

In this conversation, Adam Grant, a #1 New York Times bestselling author and organizational psychologist, shares his insights on perfectionism and procrastination. He distinguishes between neurotic and normal perfectionism, noting a rise among youth. Grant introduces the idea of a 'failure budget' and discusses how to measure success differently. He also explores the balance between creativity, vulnerability, and the pressure of seeking external validation, providing strategies for overcoming procrastination and fostering personal growth.

Dacher Keltner, a leading happiness researcher and professor at UC Berkeley, explores the transformative power of awe in this enlightening conversation. He explains how awe is essential for our well-being and distinct from other emotions. Keltner shares strategies to cultivate awe in everyday life, emphasizing its links to morality and community. Discover how nature, music, and collective experiences can heighten our sense of wonder and connection. He even discusses the role of awe in navigating grief and fostering personal growth.