In this episode of Passion Struck, host John R. Miles welcomes Dr. Laurie Santos, a renowned psychologist and professor at Yale University, to discuss the importance of mattering in our increasingly busy and disconnected world. Dr. Santos shares insights from her popular Yale course, "Psychology and the Good Life," and her podcast, "The Happiness Lab," exploring how social connections, intrinsic motivation, and the act of helping others can enhance our sense of belonging and overall happiness.

Link to the full show notes:  https://passionstruck.com/laurie-santos-on-how-to-matter-in-a-busy-world/

Key takeaways:

• The Importance of Mattering: Mattering is crucial for our psychological well-being. It involves feeling valued and connected to others, which is essential for happiness.
• Cultural Pressures: Many students today, especially in high-pressure environments like Ivy League schools, are focused on individual achievements, leading to feelings of disconnection and anxiety.
• Social Connection: Happy people tend to have strong social ties. Engaging with others and helping them can significantly boost our own happiness.
• Technology's Role: While technology can connect us, it can also lead to disconnection. The convenience of digital communication often lacks the depth of face-to-face interactions.
• The Work of Happiness: Achieving happiness requires effort and intentionality. Simple acts of kindness and social engagement can enhance our sense of mattering.

Connect with Dr. Laurie Santos: https://www.instagram.com/lauriesantosofficial/?hl=en

Sponsors:

• Factor Meals: http://factormeals.com/factormeals50off and use code “FACTOR MEALS 50 OFF
• Rosetta Stone: Unlock 25 languages for life at “ROSETTASTONE.com/passionstruck.”
• Prolon: Reset your health with 15% off at “ProlonLife.com/passionstruck.”
• Mint Mobile: Cut your wireless bill to 15 bucks a month at “MINT MOBILE dot com slash PASSION.”
• Hims: Start your journey to regrowing hair with Hims. Visit hims.com/PASSIONSTRUCK for your free online visit.
• Quince: Discover luxury at affordable prices with Quince. Enjoy free shipping and 365-day returns at quince.com/PASSION

Next on Passion Struck:
In the next episode of Passion Struck, John sits down with Dr Samuel Wilkinson, YALE professor and author of the book "Purpose.". In this discussion, we go over why, for generations, we've been told that evolution suggests that life has no deeper meaning, that we're simply the result of molecular accidents.

For more information on advertisers and promo codes, visit Passion Struck Deals.

Join the Passion Struck Community! Sign up for the Live Intentionally newsletter, where I share exclusive content, actionable advice, and insights to help you ignite your purpose and live your most intentional life. Get access to practical exercises, inspiring stories, and tools designed to help you grow.  Learn more and sign up here.

Speaking Engagements & Workshops Are you looking to inspire your team, organization, or audience to take intentional action in their lives and careers? I’m available for keynote speaking, workshops, and leadership training on top