Can we learn to be happy, or is it something we're born with?

Research, including Martin Seligman’s theory of Learned Optimism, reveals that happiness need not be a passing feeling—it can be a skill we develop. The science is clear: happiness can be learned.

One simple yet powerful tool is savouring. While happiness may seem fleeting, pausing to fully experience joyful moments can stretch them, turning brief emotions into lasting contentment. By practising this regularly, we can significantly boost our overall well-being.

In this episode, I dive into the science of happiness with Sha-En Yeo, a leading Happiness Scientist.

Sha-En holds a Master’s in Positive Psychology from the University of Pennsylvania, where she studied under Dr. Martin Seligman and Prof. Angela Duckworth. Over 13 years, she has inspired more than 25,000 people across Asia-Pacific with her keynotes and transformative coaching. You may know her from 913FM, her bestselling books, or her two TED talks. Sha-En also serves as President of the Asia Professional Speakers Association.

Fittingly, her name means “gratitude” and “kindness”—values that guide her work in spreading happiness.

If you’re ready to bring more happiness into your life or want to understand it from a scientific lens, this episode is a must-listen.

Episode Shownotes
https://howtolive.life/episode/077-the-anatomy-of-happiness-with-sha-en-yeo

Related Episode
#062 Authentic leadership without fluff with Mette Johansson
Spotify: https://howtolive.life/ep62spotify
Apple Podcasts: https://howtolive.life/ep62apple

Connect with Sha-En
https://happinessscientists.com/

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