6 Ways to Free Yourself from the Happiness Trap and Find Real Joy

ehealth radio network

Shawn Léon Nowotnik, who is an artist, author, filmmaker, and therapist living outside Chicago joins eHealth Radio and the Health News and Mental Health Channels. His new book is F*ck Happiness: The Search for Meaning in a World Gone Mad Chasing Happiness.

Listen to interview with host Eric Michaels & guest Shawn Léon Nowotnik discuss the following:

1. What inspired you to choose such a bold title, "F*ck Happiness," and what do you hope it conveys to readers?
2. Can you elaborate on the idea that the pursuit of happiness can be detrimental? What specific societal pressures do you believe contribute to this phenomenon?
3. How do you differentiate between happiness and a deeper sense of meaning in life? Why is this distinction important?
4. You discuss authenticity as vital to personal fulfillment. What are some practical ways individuals can begin to embrace their true selves in a culture that often promotes conformity?
5. Could you explain the concept of the "hedonic treadmill" and its implications for those constantly seeking happiness?
6. What personal experiences led you to challenge the traditional narrative around happiness?
7. You mention the complexities of the human experience. How has embracing these complexities shaped your own life and outlook?
8. You touch on the fear of judgment that comes with being authentic. How can individuals overcome this fear in a society dominated by social media and curated identities?

Shawn Léon Nowotnik, MSW, LCSW, is an artist, author, filmmaker, and therapist living outside Chicago. After losing his son to suicide, he was compelled to reevaluate his own narrative — and look at how loss, mental health, and addiction can affect every aspect of a person’s life. He's developed holistic treatment programs and advocates for improved mental health and addiction disorder treatments, as well as researching, writing, and public speaking about addiction, community, mental health, narrative, and social issues. His new book is F*ck Happiness: The Search for Meaning in a World Gone Mad Chasing Happiness.

Website: https://www.shawnleonnowotnik.com

Social Media Links:
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shawn-leon-nowotnik
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/shawn.nowotnik

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