Episode 24: The Science of Happiness

In this episode, we look at the science of happiness. While most of us are interested in happiness and pursue it at least to some degree, we lack the scientific understanding of how it works. Today I discuss the issues of happiness and why it matters to us so much and explore the discipline of positive psychology and its contributions to the science of happiness. I also highlight some examples of building happiness in our lives from an evidence-based perspective.  Joining in, listeners will learn about the factors that are strongly tied to happiness, how a deep sense of contentment impacts us on a physical level, and why the importance of happiness and wellbeing ought to be a global mission that is reflected in public policy. You will be encouraged to know that, despite the influence of genetics and circumstances on happiness, there are several ways in which we can build more contentment into our lives—particularly by cultivating the right mindset and taking appropriate action.   

Key Points From This Episode:

• What we mean by ‘happiness’ and its association with relationships and experiences.
• Happiness is unrelated to material possessions, final destinations, or one-time events. 
• The factors that contribute to contentment or a state of peaceful happiness.
• What a meta-analysis of happiness revealed about the physiological benefits of happiness. 
• The study proving the positive relationship between happiness, health, and longevity. 
• The correlation between reported happiness and life satisfaction scores in the Cantril Ladder.
• Hear about the sustainability aims involved in the UN’s International Day of Happiness.   
• Why happiness and wellbeing need to be a universal goal and factored into public policy. 
• An overview of Maslow’s hierarchy of needs and how positive psychology contributes to our understanding of happiness. 

Key Messages:

1. Happiness has many definitions and it can be different for everyone. 
2. It is a state of wellbeing and contentment. 
3. Happiness is not a destination but a daily practice.  
4. Studies show it improves physical health, increases longevity, and increases life satisfaction. 
5. The science of happiness is studied in the discipline of positivity psychology.  
6. External factors account for 10% of our happiness and we can control 40% (thoughts and actions).
7. Build your personal happiness through close relationships, kindness, exercising and eating well, finding flow, spiritual engagement, discovering your strengths, and a positive mindset. 

Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode: 

Kristina Hunter Flourishing

Happify Daily  

Action for Happiness 

World Happiness Report 

Our World in Data (Happiness vs Life Satisfaction)

World Health Organization (Bulletin)

The Pursuit of Happiness 

Authentic Happiness

Project Happiness Global

TED Talk: What Makes A Good Life?

The Unexpected Gift Box