On Purpose. In a new University of Cambridge study, researchers found that, even more than happiness, something called "eudaimonia'' is a predictor of better academic performance among teens. In the study, students with high levels of eudaimonia scored significantly higher than their peers on various academic tests. The study defined eudaimonia as "functioning well," but in an interview, author Tania Clarke elaborated: "It's about having the opportunity to understand what purpose in life feels like for you and having opportunities to cultivate your unique personal strengths and talents." Other sources describe eudaimonia as "a combination of well-being, happiness and flourishing." We've said it before: a little purpose goes a long way.
My comment on GK's column of appreciation for the opportunity to continue doing good work, as an octagenerian.
"...The essay was originally published in the journal Raritan in 1986, but it was not popularized until nearly two decades later, in January 2005, when Princeton University Press repackaged it as a small, spaciously lined 80-page book. It was an unexpected commercial hit, becoming a No. 1 New York Times best seller. Soon Professor Frankfurt was making television appearances on "60 Minutes," the "Today" show and "The Daily Show With Jon Stewart."
The book's popularity seemed to be fueled in part by the recent re-election of President George W. Bush, many of whose critics viewed his administration, with its purported dismissal of what one Bush aide called the "reality-based community," as exemplifying the very blitheness about truth that Professor Frankfurt had described..."
https://www.nytimes.com/2023/07/17/books/harry-g-frankfurt-dead.html
Stream for free, end of September: As the resident happiness columnist at The Atlantic, I've had the pleasure of thinking, writing, and podcasting about the many ways that you and I can build happier lives. Because to me, happiness is not just a feeling. It's something we can study, understand, and apply in practice. There is a science to it all, and I've made it my life's work to share what I've learned with as many people as possible. I'm excited to share those insights with you at this fall's Atlantic Festival, where I'll be hosting the happiness forum on Friday, September 29.
At the forum, you'll hear from people who think, research, and write about the pursuit of happiness—and, together, we'll explore the steps we can all take toward a more joyful existence. You can join me and some very special guest speakers virtually from anywhere, or in-person at The Wharf in Washington, D.C.
The complete agenda for The Atlantic Festival will be released on August 1, with more great speakers to come. However you plan on joining, I hope you'll leave with a deeper understanding of happiness and how to enjoy the pursuit. I'd love to see you there.
Best, |
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Arthur C. Brooks |
