The Science of Happiness – An Experiment in Gratitude

We’ve spent some time lately looking into the “science of happiness” as explained by Ed Diener and Robert Biswas-Diener (Happiness: Unlocking the Mysteries of Psychological Wealth) and Rick Hanson (Hardwiring Happiness: The New Brain Science of Contentment, Calm, and Confidence and Just One Thing: Developing a Buddha Brain One Simple Practice at a Time). One of the many findings of formal research into this human emotion is that the happiness that arises from experiences is more enduring than the happiness we experience as a result of acquiring material things. So that trip to Disneyland with your kids or grandkids will likely be a more enduring source of happiness than taking title to that new Tesla you’ve been lusting after.

More recent research suggests that consciously expressing gratitude can powerfully enhance your happiness. We think you’ll find this entertaining and sometimes moving video on the subject well worth seven minutes of your time. Enjoy!