Beyond the Pursuit: Understanding Happiness Through Connection with Professor Sonja Lyubomirsky

Hardiness with Dr Paul Taylor · Feb 6, 2026 · 56m · transcript

In this podcast episode, Professor Sonja Lyubomirsky discusses her extensive research on happiness, including defining happiness and the historical context of its study. She elaborates on the two components of happiness: experiencing positive emotions and believing that life is good. Sonja also outlines the genetic, circumstantial, and behavioural influences on happiness and addresses the impact of mental health issues. The conversation covers cultural factors, the role of social connection, and various strategies to boost happiness, such as acts of kindness, gratitude, and engaging…