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

Gratitude Practice

Practicing gratitude can significantly enhance happiness by shifting focus from negativity to appreciation. Laurie Santos explains that while our evolutionary instincts drive us to seek more, true happiness often comes from appreciating what we already have. She suggests a "delight practice," where individuals note daily joys, thus training the brain to notice positive aspects of life.

If you have this practice where you got to write down the delights, your brain starts to automatically be on the lookout for them.

--- Laurie Santos

Andrew Huberman agrees, noting that this practice can help counteract our natural negativity bias, leading to increased life satisfaction 1 2.

   

Small Moments

Appreciating small moments can profoundly impact well-being by fostering presence and joy. Laurie Santos highlights the sensory nature of these delights, which can be as simple as savoring a morning coffee or noticing flowers. This practice not only shifts attention from stressors but also builds a habit of recognizing positivity in everyday life.

You're shifting your emotions because you're noticing these good things.

--- Laurie Santos

Andrew Huberman adds that delighting in small pleasures can be a major point of convergence in relationships, enhancing emotional connections and overall happiness 3 4.