Arthur Brooks - Harvard Professor & Happiness Expert | Why Everything You Think About Success Is Wrong

Success Story with Scott D. Clary

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Arthur Brooks is a social scientist, bestselling author, and public speaker renowned for his work on happiness, leadership, and the intersection of science and human flourishing. Formerly the president of the American Enterprise Institute, he now teaches at Harvard University, where he focuses on behavioral science and social well-being. Through his books, research, and talks, Brooks explores how individuals can cultivate purpose, resilience, and joy in both life and work.

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➡️ Office Hours Podcast

Each week on Office Hours, you’ll get a glimpse into the cutting edge research on happiness, and explore how you can use it to improve your life—and share what you learn with those you love.

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3fT0FLFsPgV2mbVjuOo3JV

Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/office-hours-with-arthur-brooks/id1832119842

YouTube: https://youtu.be/I5LVbNcW1VY

➡️ Books

https://www.amazon.com/Happiness-Files-Insights-Arthur-Brooks/dp/B0F4MFQ6VN

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➡️ Talking Points

00:00 – Intro

01:25 – What Most People Get Wrong About Happiness

04:30 – The Reverse Bucket List Explained

09:59 – Ambition Without Attachment

14:09 – Playing “What’s My Idol?”

22:51 – Sponsor Break

24:48 – Does Conquest Make You Happier?

27:39 – Intention Without Attachment

30:21 – Why Your Calling Matters

34:25 – Is Secularism Fueling Anxiety and Depression?

36:22 – Happiness vs. Meaning: What’s the Difference?

38:09 – Sponsor Break

40:04 – Why Arthur Turned to Buddhism

46:54 – Redefining Intimacy

49:48 – The Happiness Paradox

56:01 – What Sabotages Your Happiness?

58:31 – A Life-Changing Idea From Arthur’s Latest Book

01:00:39 – The No.1 Lesson on Happiness for His Kids