Dr. Laurie Santos: How to Achieve True Happiness Using Science-Based Protocols

Wealth Misconceptions

The pursuit of wealth often comes with the misconception that it directly correlates with happiness. Laurie Santos highlights that many individuals set financial goals, believing that reaching a certain wealth level will bring happiness, only to find themselves unfulfilled 1. This cycle of comparison, where people measure their wealth against others, often leads to dissatisfaction. Santos explains, "Our comparison system sucks because we constantly compare ourselves against others. But we never pick people that are doing worse than us. We always pick people who are doing better than us."

--- Laurie Santos

Andrew Huberman adds that happiness is less about circumstances and more about personal behaviors and thought patterns 2.

   

Hedonic Adaptation

Hedonic adaptation describes how individuals return to a baseline level of happiness despite changes in their circumstances. Laurie Santos notes that even significant financial gains do not necessarily lead to lasting happiness, as people quickly adapt to their new status 1. Andrew Huberman discusses the concept of delight, which offers a more immediate and sustainable form of happiness. He states, "Delight feels like a very smooth road to a reward that's all net positive."

--- Andrew Huberman

This suggests that finding joy in small, everyday experiences can be more fulfilling than chasing financial milestones 3.