Watch The Ted Talk By Dr. Robert Waldinger On Psychiatry
Watch The Following Ted Talk By Dr Robert Waldinger Psychiatrist
Watch the following TED Talk by Dr. Robert Waldinger, psychiatrist and professor at Harvard Medical School. He discusses some of the results of the Grant study, a longitudinal study spanning nearly 75 years, and explains some of the factors leading to a happy life.
After watching the talk, answer the following questions (5 points): How do I define happiness for myself? Do I consider myself a happy person right now? What do I need in my life in order to be happy? What is one thing you can do each day to prioritize this need? Who are the people in my life who affect my happiness?
Do you think you will feel the same when you turn 65? Why or why not? What other emotional goals other than happiness do you hope to achieve now and in the future? Submission must be at least 300 words in length
Paper For Above instruction
The TED Talk by Dr. Robert Waldinger provides profound insights into the enduring factors that contribute to a fulfilling and happy life, based on the findings of the longest-running study on adult development—the Grant study. Reflecting on his presentation prompts a personal assessment of how I define happiness, the current state of my well-being, and the future outlook on emotional fulfillment.
To me, happiness is a holistic sense of well-being, characterized by meaningful relationships, personal growth, and living in alignment with my core values. It encompasses feeling content with oneself, being connected to others, and experiencing a balance between work, leisure, and personal pursuits. Currently, I consider myself reasonably happy, though I recognize areas for improvement. My happiness largely depends on my relationships and my sense of purpose.
In order to enhance my happiness, I believe I need to foster deeper connections with loved ones and cultivate gratitude for the present moment. One practical step I can take each day is to dedicate time to connect meaningfully with family and friends, whether through a phone call, shared meal, or simply expressing appreciation. Such daily actions can strengthen my relationships and reinforce a sense of social support, which Waldinger emphasizes as critical for happiness.
The people who influence my happiness include my family, friends, and colleagues. Their support, encouragement, and shared experiences contribute significantly to my emotional well-being. Waldinger’s research underscores the importance of close relationships in promoting longevity and life satisfaction, which resonates with my personal observations.
Looking ahead to when I turn 65, I believe my feelings of happiness may evolve, but core elements like strong relationships and purpose will remain vital. As I age, I anticipate facing new challenges, such as health issues or changes in social roles, but I hope that the bonds I nurture now will sustain me through these transitions. I may also develop a greater appreciation for simple pleasures and patience, which are associated with emotional resilience in later years.
Beyond happiness, I aspire to achieve emotional goals such as resilience, inner peace, and a sense of contribution. I wish to cultivate mindfulness and gratitude, enabling me to navigate life's inevitable obstacles with grace. Contributing to my community and mentoring others are also meaningful pursuits that provide a sense of purpose and fulfillment beyond fleeting happiness.
In conclusion, Dr. Waldinger’s insights illuminate the significance of relationships and purpose in achieving a happy life. By consciously enriching my connections and aligning my actions with my values, I can foster long-term well-being. Anticipating future emotional goals, I aim to develop resilience and inner peace, skills essential for facing life's uncertainties, and to continue growing as a person throughout my lifespan.
References
- Waldinger, R., & Schulz, M. (2016). The secrets of happy lives. TEDxCambridge. https://www.ted.com/talks/robert_waldinger_the_secrets_of_happy_lives
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