We are conditioned to believe that material success means happiness. Relentless sacrifice, exhaustion and burnout like a badge of honour and productivity is measured in late nights, early mornings and endless emails — being plugged in and always available.
On the same thread, the myth of the American Dream is that hard work pays off, which is certainly not always the case both in the sense of financial and personal fulfilment.
Shawn Achor’s The Happiness Advantage: The Seven Principles of Positive Psychology That Fuel Success and Performance exposes and challenges these entrenched beliefs.
His research shows that happiness isn’t the reward for success—it’s the fuel that makes success possible. In an age where stress, uncertainty, and constant change define much of our daily lives, his insights are not just refreshing, they’re critical.
Who is Shawn Achor?
Shawn Achor is a leading researcher in the field of positive psychology, a former Harvard lecturer, and the founder of GoodThink Inc.,— a consulting firm that brings science-based strategies for happiness into schools and organizations around the world.
His TED Talk, “The Happy Secret to Better Work,” is one of the most popular of all time, viewed by millions.
Achor’s work stands out because it’s grounded in real research and practical application—not just motivational soundbites.
1. Success follows happiness, not the other way around
We often believe: If I land the job, earn the promotion, or hit the milestone, then I’ll finally be happy. Achor’s research proves the opposite.
When we cultivate happiness first, through gratitude, exercise, social connection, or mindfulness, our brains perform better. Creativity, problem-solving, and motivation increase.
It’s not about denying ambition but about shifting the timeline: happiness is the starting point, not the end prize.
2. Small habits create significant change
Anchor asserts that we don’t need grand gestures to reshape our outlook.
Even simple daily practices, like writing down three things you’re grateful for or spending two minutes meditating, can rewire our brains over time.
These mini “mental push-ups” build resilience and optimism, helping us handle challenges more effectively. The beauty here is accessibility—anyone can start with a few minutes a day.
3. Social support is your greatest asset
We live in an culture that celebrates independence to a fault. Achor emphasizes how our social connections are the single strongest predictor of happiness and resilience.
Building and nurturing authentic relationships, at work and in life, doesn’t just feel good. Rather, it directly boosts performance and well-being.
Next time stress mounts, reaching out to a colleague or friend isn’t a distraction. It’s a strategy and a way of meeting a the innate human need for support.
4. The “Tetris Effect”: Train your brain to see opportunities
Just like Tetris players start seeing block shapes everywhere, our brains adapt to what we repeatedly focus on.
The Tetris Effect is when we continuously perform a specific set of tasks or activities for a prolonged period of time and it rewires our thinking and perception.
Many of us unconsciously train our brains to spot problems, flaws, and threats.
Achor suggests flipping that lens to intentionally notice opportunities, wins, and positive outcomes.
Over time, this practice rewires us to approach challenges with solutions in mind, rather than being stuck in problem-only mode.
5. Never underestimate the power of resilience
Setbacks are inevitable but how we respond makes all the difference.
Achor highlights that resilience is a skill that can be developed and trained over time. By reframing challenges as temporary and specific (rather than permanent and pervasive), we reduce the weight of failure and can bounce back faster.
This shift allows us to see obstacles as stepping stones instead of dead ends.
The Happiness Advantage reminds us that happiness isn’t a frivolous extra. Happiness is a performance driver.
Achor shows us that by cultivating positivity, nurturing relationships, and building resilience, we not only improve our mental health but also expand our capacity for success.
Which takeaway resonates the most with you? For more info about Shawn Anchor and The Happiness Advantage, head here.
