Discover why we often misunderstand what creates happiness and learn science-backed strategies to break negative thought patterns, strengthen social connections, and build lasting well-being in your everyday life.

From Columbia University alumni built in San Francisco
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"Makes me feel smarter every time before going to work"
From Columbia University alumni built in San Francisco

Lena: Hey there, welcome to The Happiness Lab! I'm Lena, and I'm joined by my friend Miles. Today we're diving into something we all want more of but often struggle to find—happiness.
Miles: That's right, Lena. And what's fascinating is how often we get happiness completely wrong. Did you know that Yale professor Laurie Santos found that even when students achieve their goals—getting into an elite university, landing that dream job—they're often still profoundly unhappy?
Lena: Wait, seriously? That's so counterintuitive! I always thought accomplishing big goals was the ticket to happiness.
Miles: You'd think so! But the research shows we're terrible at predicting what will actually make us happy. We overestimate how much things like money and achievements will boost our happiness, while underestimating the impact of relationships and social connections.
Lena: That reminds me of that study with the monkeys where they were perfectly happy with their fruit until they saw another monkey getting more or better fruit. Then they became furious!
Miles: Exactly! That social comparison is hardwired into us. And it's one of many "mind hitches" that trip us up when pursuing happiness. The good news is that science has uncovered practical strategies that can actually move the needle on our well-being.
Lena: I could definitely use some of those strategies! So let's explore what the science of happiness tells us about getting out of those negative headspaces and finding more joy in our everyday lives.