Tal Ben-Shahar on the Science of Being Happier (#409)

Tal Ben-Shahar (IG: @happiness.studies.academy) obtained his PhD in Organizational Behavior from Harvard and is a bestselling author and lecturer.

He taught two of the largest classes in Harvard University’s history, Positive Psychology and The Psychology of Leadership.

Today, Tal consults and lectures around the world and is the co-founder and chief learning officer of Happiness Studies Academy.

Watch the full video version of this conversation below.

In this episode, we discuss:

The pivotal moment in Tal’s happiness journey after he won a squash championship
Leaving computer science behind to study philosophy & psychology
Learning that success won’t lead to happiness
What is me-search?
Tal’s attempt to become happier and increase self-esteem & self-confidence
The SPIRE elements of happiness
When we reject painful emotions they intensify
Even the greatest love stories face difficulties, challenges, and hardships
It’s ok to struggle, it’s part of evolving
Gridlocks are the road to a better relationship
Boundaries are important in raising children
Open communication is an important part of any relationship
More important than validation is knowing and being known
Taking small steps to intimacy
People share too much, we need to be more modest
Imparting values and interests on your family
Understanding your intrinsic passion vs. your extrinsic motivation
When you decide to take your own path… commit to it 100%
Pursuing your passion is the essence of happiness
Why Tal created the field of happiness studies
Learn to embrace and accept your anxiety not reject it
Have more of an impact on our happiness levels
Create daily rituals to express gratitude
Knowing that your life is going to end / facing death
Reading a book on happiness won’t make you happier… you need to practice

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Related episodes:

377: A.J. Jacobs – Stop Obsessing About Your Health, Gratitude Leads To Happiness, Radical Honesty
366: Dr. Andrew Weil – Spontaneous Happiness
211: Meik Wiking – What Is Happiness (Lykke)? • The Lost Wallet Experiment • Helper’s High
123: Jonathan Fields – How To Live A Good Life • Breakthroughs Require Uncertainty • Money And Happiness Are Byproducts, Not The Goal
037: Gretchen Rubin – The Foundation For Happiness | Simplicity vs. Abundance Lovers | The One Minute Rule

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