the archivist March 26, 2024
a brick sidewalk with a yellow arrow painted on it

The 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.

Discover the Power of Reverse Psychology

Unlocking true health isn’t just about the absence of disease—it’s about flipping the script on traditional notions of happiness and success.

The conventional belief is that if you work harder, success will follow, and happiness will naturally ensue. But science tells us otherwise. This approach is fundamentally flawed for two key reasons.

First, each success merely shifts the goalposts, leaving us perpetually chasing an ever-elusive happiness. Second, by placing happiness on the other side of success, we’re effectively pushing it beyond our reach.

Here’s the revelation: our brains operate in reverse. Elevating positivity in the present triggers what experts term the “happiness advantage.” Positivity enhances cognitive function, boosting intelligence, creativity, and energy levels.

To unleash this potential, we must flip the script. By prioritizing positivity, we can tap into the brain’s remarkable capacity for growth and adaptation. Through a simple, two-minute daily practice over 21 days, we can rewire our brains for optimism and success.