Name: The happy secret to better work
Uploaded: 2012-02-01T16:09:38Z
Duration: 12 min 3 s
Description: We believe we should work hard in order to be happy, but could we be thinking about things backwards? In this fast-moving and very funny talk, psychologist Shawn Achor argues that, actually, happiness inspires us to be more productive.

Shawn Achor: The happy secret to better work

The happy secret to better work

We believe we should work hard in order to be happy, but could we be thinking about things backwards? In this fast-moving and very funny talk, psychologist Shawn Achor argues that, actually, happiness inspires us to be more productive.

Success does not automatically lead to happiness; instead, a positive mindset boosts productivity and creativity. Research shows that 90 percent of long-term happiness comes from how the brain interprets experiences, not external circumstances. At Harvard and beyond, students and workers quickly shift from celebrating achievement to focusing on stress unless they actively train their brains to spot the good. Simple daily habits like gratitude journaling or acts of kindness can rewire the brain for optimism within three weeks.

Happiness Fuels Success, Not The Other Way Around

*Big Potential: How Transforming the Pursuit of Success Raises Our Achievement, Happiness, and Well-Being*

*The Happiness Advantage*

Since the Talk: Why are some people stuck in their ways?

What do we know about happiness?

science

business

innovation

social change

health

cognitive science

psychology

happiness

work

motivation

brain

sociology

depression

mental health

productivity

TEDx

TEDx Talk