
634: The Happiness Paradox & Lessons from Life’s Last Room with Amy Low
The Holy Post
Happiness Tracking Can Lead to Distress
Amid the rise of various tools and apps aiming to measure, track, and optimize happiness, there is significant debate about the effectiveness of these methods. Despite the growing popularity of happiness-related applications, research suggests weak evidence that measuring happiness actually enhances well-being. Tracking mood may even exacerbate negative emotions, particularly among individuals predisposed to adverse feelings. Studies indicate that mindfulness training doesn't guarantee improved mental health outcomes for college students; those already at risk may fare worse. There's a cautionary perspective that reducing life to mere mood tracking risks fostering depression and anxiety, highlighting the complex nature of genuine contentment.