You Can Change

The Happiness Lab with Dr. Laurie Santos

09/13/19 • 38 min

You can make yourself happier today. Your life circumstances and personality aren't nearly as important as you think in deciding how happy you can be. Dr Laurie Santos explains how understanding the latest science will point you in the right direction and make you more satisfied with your life. Are you ready to feel better?

For an even deeper dive into the research we talk about in the show visit happinesslab.fm

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09/13/19 • 38 min

15 Listeners

The Happiness Lab with Dr. Laurie Santos - You Can Change

Transcript Summary

In this episode titled "You Can Change," the host explores the fascinating science behind happiness and how it can impact various aspects of our lives. Drawing from the renowned Harvard Study of Adult Development, it is revealed that factors like wealth and career achievements do not necessarily guarantee happiness. Instead, good relationships with others emerge as one of the strongest predictors of staying healthy and happy. The episode also delves into the mind-body connection, highlighting how our mental well-being can affect physical illnesses such as diabetes and heart disease. Additionally, the host discusses the skyrocketing rates of anxiety and depression among college students, and how a Yale University professor developed a popular online course on the science of happiness. By putting into practice strategies like gratitude and kindness, we can actively improve our happiness levels and enjoy the positive outcomes it brings, such as better relationships and higher income. If you're interested in discovering the secrets to finding lasting happiness and navigating the challenges of college life, this episode is a must-listen.

Transcript

Speaker 100:00:15.435

Pushkin, No, I'm not nervous. Okay, I'm nervous. My heart's over here. One fateful day every spring, high school seniors who've applied to Yale University are invited to log onto a special website to find out if they made it in. I'm doing it now. Okay, okay. Only about six percent of applicants will get good news. But for that lucky few, it's time to celebrate. Some students even post their reactions on YouTube. It's kind of a thing. Oh my god,</

You Can Change Top Questions Answered

How does the connection between mind and body affect health?

The connection between mind and body can significantly impact health.

Do rich and powerful people have a monopoly on well-being?

No, well-being is not limited to the rich and powerful.

Will changing circumstances improve happiness for most people?

Changing circumstances may not necessarily lead to improved happiness for most individuals.

What does it take to achieve happiness?

Happiness requires conscious effort and regular practice.

How can simple habits and activities improve well-being?

Engaging in simple habits and activities can indeed enhance well-being.

Did the online course on the science of happiness lead to improvements in well-being for participants?

Yes, the online course on the science of happiness resulted in significant improvements in well-being for participants.

Is happiness something that requires ongoing work and consistency?

Yes, happiness takes continuous effort and consistency.

What are some specific habits discussed that can improve happiness?

Some specific habits mentioned include practicing gratitude, kindness, and connecting with others.

Can improving well-being lead to better job prospects and salary levels?

Yes, research suggests that improving well-being can indeed lead to enhanced job prospects and salary levels.

Does happiness have a genetic component that can be changed?

Happiness has a genetic component, but it can still be changed through various means.

What were the findings of the Harvard Study of Adult Development?

The Harvard Study of Adult Development found that good relationships with others strongly predict health and happiness, while wealth and career achievements have a lesser impact.

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