The Science of Well-Being

Hello, Thrive Community!

Recently, I dove into Yale University’s free course, “The Science of Well-Being,” and I can't believe how much I've learnt! Taught by Professor Laurie Santos, this course explores the psychological foundations of happiness, what really helps us lead fulfilling lives, and how we often misjudge what will bring us joy. Here are some of the key insights and personal takeaways from my experience with the course.

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The Happiness Misconceptions

One of the first and most striking lessons from the course was about the common misconceptions we have about happiness. Many of us believe that bigger salaries, higher grades, or more followers on social media will make us happier. However, research shows that after reaching a certain basic level of comfort, the impact of these factors on our well-being is surprisingly small. This lesson taught me that “more” doesn’t necessarily make people happier. 

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The Power of Gratitude and Kindness

The course emphasises the significant impact of gratitude and kind acts on our mental health. Practising gratitude regularly can shift our focus from what we lack to what we have, fostering a sense of abundance. Similarly, performing random acts of kindness not only boosts our mood but also leads to a ripple effect of happiness. Inspired by this, I’ve integrated daily gratitude journaling and weekly acts of kindness into my routine. My acts of kindness have been simple things like sending my friends, family and colleagues messages that i know they will appreciate. Some thoughtful words, a thank you, a podcast or tv show recommendation. Or one of my favourites, a “this made me think of you” and a photo or video to go with it. 

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Healthy Practices for the Mind and Body

The course also covers the importance of healthy practices such as meditation, exercise, and sufficient sleep in enhancing our mental well-being. Each of these activities directly impacts our brain chemistry and overall health, leading to better mood regulation and stress management. I know these things are all incredibly valuable but learning about the myriad of studies and research that has been done on mediation, exercise and sleep really solidified that learning for me. 

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Hedonic Adaptation

Another important concept that I learned from the course was hedonic adaptation. It refers to the tendency for humans to quickly adapt to both positive and negative life circumstances. This means that while we may experience intense joy or sorrow in response to major life events, our emotional state tends to return to a relatively stable baseline over time. Understanding hedonic adaptation has helped me appreciate the importance of enjoying the good things in life and helps me remember that something that I really want like a new car, new job or new pair of shoes will only increase my happiness temporarily.  

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Savouring Every Moment

Finally, “The Science of Well-Being” taught me the art of savouring—the practice of mindfully engaging in the moment to enhance enjoyment and appreciation. Whether it’s savouring a meal, a conversation, or a simple morning walk, being fully present can significantly enhance our daily experiences and overall happiness.

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Conclusion

Completing Yale’s “The Science of Well-Being” course has been one of the best free experiences I've had in a while. It challenged many of my preconceived notions about happiness and led me to adopt more meaningful practices in my daily life. I highly recommend this course to anyone looking to enhance their understanding of happiness and well-being.

Remember, the pursuit of happiness is a personal journey, and while science provides a helpful guide, it’s up to us to apply these lessons in ways that resonate with us as individuals. 

Stay motivated,

Jarrad 

Founder, Thrive Labs

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