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Laura Sockol

Along with changes and challenges of going through a pandemic, many people are finding that what gave them happiness before does not work or no longer exists. If you feel like you need to reconnect to what makes you happy, this course is for you! In this course, we will define and analyze what happiness is by looking at social science research data. We will look at the elements of happiness and identify which ones are most related to you. ****

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Along with changes and challenges of going through a pandemic, many people are finding that what gave them happiness before does not work or no longer exists. If you feel like you need to reconnect to what makes you happy, this course is for you! In this course, we will define and analyze what happiness is by looking at social science research data. We will look at the elements of happiness and identify which ones are most related to you. ****

This four-week course will walk you through the social science research about happiness. You will learn how to increase accomplishment and pursue achievement, foster a sense of meaning, and promote engagement. Not all pathways to happiness are the same. By better understanding different elements that lead to happiness, and by doing some self reflection activities, you will find what positive interventions work for you.

What's inside

Learning objectives

  • Understand scientific research about positive psychology
  • Apply relevant scientific strategies to your own life
  • Foster a sense of meaning

Good to know

Know what's good
, what to watch for
, and possible dealbreakers
Guides students to define and analyze the elements of happiness based on social science research
Appropriate for individuals seeking to enhance their understanding of positive psychology
Provides practical strategies to promote achievement, cultivate meaning, and boost engagement
Suitable for individuals navigating life transitions and seeking renewed happiness
Duration of four weeks ensures a focused and manageable learning experience

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Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Pathways to Happiness with these activities:
Review the basics of positive psychology
Review the research supporting the field of positive psychology to strengthen your foundational knowledge.
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  • Read an article or chapter on the history of positive psychology.
  • Identify the key principles of positive psychology.
  • Discuss the applications of positive psychology in various settings.
Read 'Authentic Happiness' by Martin Seligman
Gain insights into the science of happiness and practical strategies for living a more fulfilling life.
Show steps
  • Purchase or borrow a copy of the book.
  • Read the book and take notes on key concepts and strategies.
  • Discuss the book with friends, family, or a study group.
Volunteer with an organization that promotes happiness or well-being
Contribute to the happiness of others and gain valuable insights into different perspectives.
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  • Research and identify organizations that align with your values and interests.
  • Contact the organization and inquire about volunteer opportunities.
  • Commit to a regular volunteer schedule and actively engage in activities.
Five other activities
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Identify and analyze different definitions of happiness
Deepen your understanding of the concept of happiness by examining various definitions and perspectives.
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  • Gather different definitions of happiness from various sources.
  • Compare and contrast the different definitions, identifying their similarities and differences.
  • Develop your own definition of happiness based on your analysis.
Attend a happiness workshop or seminar
Connect with others interested in happiness and learn from experts in the field.
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  • Research and identify potential workshops or seminars in your area.
  • Attend the event and actively participate in discussions and exercises.
  • Connect with other participants and exchange ideas.
Create a happiness journal
Foster a sense of gratitude and positivity by regularly recording your experiences and reflections.
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  • Set aside a specific time each day to write in your journal.
  • Reflect on the positive aspects of your day, big and small.
  • Write down things you are grateful for and why.
Design a happiness intervention for a specific group
Apply your knowledge to create a meaningful impact on others' well-being.
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  • Identify a specific group that you would like to target with your intervention.
  • Research and understand the unique needs and challenges faced by this group.
  • Design an intervention that is tailored to the specific needs of the group and evidence-based principles of positive psychology.
Develop a personalized happiness plan
Take action and create a plan to enhance your own happiness and well-being.
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  • Identify areas in your life where you would like to experience more happiness.
  • Research and explore different strategies for increasing happiness.
  • Create a specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound plan for implementing these strategies.

Career center

Learners who complete Pathways to Happiness will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
Happiness Researcher
Happiness Researchers study the causes and consequences of happiness, using scientific methods to investigate the factors that contribute to well-being. This course provides a strong foundation in the science of happiness, offering insights into the latest research and methodologies. By taking this course, Happiness Researchers can enhance their understanding of the field and develop new strategies for promoting happiness and well-being.
Positive Psychologist
Positive Psychologists focus on the study of human strengths and well-being. This course offers a comprehensive overview of the science of happiness, providing Positive Psychologists with valuable insights into the factors that contribute to well-being. By exploring the elements of happiness, fostering a sense of meaning, and promoting engagement, Positive Psychologists can deepen their understanding of the field and develop more effective interventions for promoting happiness and well-being.
Psychologist
Happiness is an important aspect of mental and emotional well-being, and understanding how to achieve and maintain it can be valuable for Psychologists. This course provides insights into the science of happiness, offering strategies that can be applied to one's own life and work with clients. It covers elements of happiness, fostering a sense of meaning, and promoting engagement, all of which are relevant to a Psychologist's work in helping individuals improve their mental health and overall well-being.
Social Worker
Social Workers often work with individuals and communities to address social and emotional challenges. This course can provide Social Workers with a deeper understanding of the science of happiness and its implications for their work. By learning about the elements of happiness and how to foster a sense of meaning and engagement, Social Workers can better support their clients in achieving greater well-being.
Counselor
Understanding the science of happiness and its implications for mental and emotional health can be beneficial for Counselors. This course provides insights into the elements of happiness, fostering a sense of meaning, and promoting engagement. Counselors can apply these strategies in their work with clients, helping them identify and address barriers to happiness and develop strategies for improving their well-being.
Wellness Coach
Wellness Coaches help individuals improve their overall well-being, focusing on areas such as physical health, mental health, and lifestyle choices. This course can provide Wellness Coaches with a deeper understanding of the science of happiness and its implications for their work. By learning about the elements of happiness, fostering a sense of meaning, and promoting engagement, Wellness Coaches can better support their clients in achieving greater well-being.
Life Coach
Life Coaches work with individuals to help them achieve their personal and professional goals. This course can provide Life Coaches with valuable insights into the science of happiness and its implications for their work. By learning about the elements of happiness, fostering a sense of meaning, and promoting engagement, Life Coaches can better support their clients in identifying and achieving greater well-being.
Teacher
Teachers play a crucial role in shaping the lives of young people, and understanding the science of happiness can be valuable for their work. This course provides insights into the elements of happiness, fostering a sense of meaning, and promoting engagement. Teachers can apply these strategies in their classrooms, creating a more positive and supportive learning environment for their students.
Organizational Psychologist
Organizational Psychologists study and apply psychological principles to improve the functioning of organizations. This course can provide Organizational Psychologists with a deeper understanding of the science of happiness and its implications for their work. By learning about the elements of happiness, fostering a sense of meaning, and promoting engagement, Organizational Psychologists can develop more effective strategies for creating positive and productive work environments.
Motivational Speaker
Motivational Speakers inspire and motivate individuals to achieve their goals and live more fulfilling lives. This course can provide Motivational Speakers with valuable insights into the science of happiness and its implications for their work. By learning about the elements of happiness, fostering a sense of meaning, and promoting engagement, Motivational Speakers can develop more effective strategies for inspiring and motivating their audiences.
Speech-Language Pathologist
Speech-Language Pathologists help individuals improve their communication skills. This course can provide Speech-Language Pathologists with a deeper understanding of the science of happiness and its implications for their work. By learning about the elements of happiness, fostering a sense of meaning, and promoting engagement, Speech-Language Pathologists can better support their clients in achieving greater well-being and communication success.
Occupational Therapist
Occupational Therapists help individuals improve their ability to perform everyday activities and live independently. This course can provide Occupational Therapists with a deeper understanding of the science of happiness and its implications for their work. By learning about the elements of happiness, fostering a sense of meaning, and promoting engagement, Occupational Therapists can better support their clients in achieving greater well-being and independence.
Minister
Ministers provide spiritual guidance and support to individuals and communities. This course can provide Ministers with a deeper understanding of the science of happiness and its implications for their work. By learning about the elements of happiness, fostering a sense of meaning, and promoting engagement, Ministers can better support their congregations in achieving greater well-being.
Consultant
Consultants provide advice and support to organizations and individuals on a wide range of topics. This course can provide Consultants with a deeper understanding of the science of happiness and its implications for their work. By learning about the elements of happiness, fostering a sense of meaning, and promoting engagement, Consultants can better support their clients in achieving greater success and well-being.
Human Resources Manager
Human Resources Managers play a vital role in creating a positive and productive work environment. This course can provide Human Resources Managers with a deeper understanding of the science of happiness and its implications for their work. By learning about the elements of happiness, fostering a sense of meaning, and promoting engagement, Human Resources Managers can develop more effective strategies for attracting, retaining, and motivating employees.

Reading list

We've selected 13 books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in Pathways to Happiness.
Provides a comprehensive overview of positive psychology, the scientific study of happiness and well-being. It offers practical strategies for increasing happiness and well-being, and valuable resource for anyone interested in learning more about the science of happiness.
Provides a research-based approach to happiness, and offers practical strategies for increasing happiness and well-being. It valuable resource for anyone interested in learning how to live a happier life.
Provides a comprehensive overview of positive psychology, the scientific study of happiness and well-being. It valuable resource for anyone interested in learning more about the science of happiness.
This handbook provides a comprehensive overview of positive psychology, the scientific study of happiness and well-being. It valuable resource for anyone interested in learning more about the science of happiness.
Provides a personal account of one woman's year-long journey to happiness. It valuable resource for anyone interested in learning how to live a happier life.
Provides a motivational guide to happiness and success. It valuable resource for anyone interested in learning how to live a happier life.
Provides a guide to personal and professional success. It valuable resource for anyone interested in learning how to live a happier and more fulfilling life.
Provides a guide to living a more courageous and authentic life. It valuable resource for anyone interested in learning how to live a happier and more fulfilling life.
Provides a philosophical and psychological exploration of the meaning of life. It valuable resource for anyone interested in learning how to live a happier and more meaningful life.

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