Happiness vs. Our Genetics with Dr. Michael Vlerick

Messy and Masterful

In this first episode of a series of 5, Aldo interviews Dr. Michael Vlerick about his new book, 'Why We Are Not Happier.' They discuss the book launch and the reception it received. They explore the concept of happiness versus our genes, highlighting the hyperactive threat detection and negativity bias that can hinder our happiness. They also discuss the role of ambition and the importance of changing our perspective to achieve long-term happiness. The conversation explores the concept of true happiness and how we often look in the wrong places for it. It emphasizes the importance of understanding what truly makes us happy and how we can achieve a deep and lasting happiness that is not dependent on external circumstances. The conversation also highlights the need to recognise the patterns and norms that may lead us astray in our pursuit of happiness. Takeaways

• External circumstances have less impact on our long-term happiness than we tend to think.
• Our genes can influence our happiness, but there are practices and insights that can help us overcome genetic obstacles.
• We have a tendency to focus on the negative aspects of our lives and get used to improved conditions quickly.
• Negativity bias leads us to remember negative events more vividly and have a greater psychological impact.
• Ambition can be a motivator, but it's important to have intrinsic motivations and realistic expectations.
• Changing our perspective and working on certain practices can lead to long-term happiness. True happiness is not found in external elements but in understanding what truly makes us happy.
• We are often primed to look in the wrong direction for happiness, influenced by media and societal norms.
• Negativity bias and hedonic adaptation are common obstacles to happiness, but we can overcome them.

The next episode will explore those elements in our environment that hinder our happiness and what we can do about it. You can find out more about Dr. Michael Vlerick here: https://www.michaelvlerick.com/ ---

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