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Dr. Rajagopal Raghunathan

What are the determinants of a happy and fulfilling life?

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What are the determinants of a happy and fulfilling life?

This is surely one of life’s biggest questions, and a question that has interested many of our ancestors. Buddha famously gave up his kingdom in search of happiness. Several Greek philosophers (from Aristotle to Epicurus and Plato to Socrates) had their own views on what it takes to be happy. And of course, we all have our own theories about happiness too.

How valid are our theories?

Until recently, if you wished for an answer to this question, you would've been forced to base it on discussions with spiritual leaders. Or, if you were lucky, you could've based it on late-night (and perhaps intoxicant-fueled) conversations with friends and family. Happily, all that has changed now. Over the past decade-and-a-half, scientists have gotten into the act big time. We now have a pretty good idea of what it takes to lead a happy and fulfilling life.

This course, based on the award-winning class offered both at the Indian School of Business and at the McCombs School of Business at The University of Texas at Austin, developed by Prof. Raj Raghunathan (aka "Dr. Happy-smarts") draws content from a variety of fields, including psychology, neuroscience, and behavioral decision theory to offer a tested and practical recipe for leading a life of happiness and fulfillment.

Although not mandatory, reading Prof. Raj's forthcoming book, titled If you're so smart, why aren't you happy? can help you review and assimilate the material covered in this book at your leisure.

For Coursera learners alone, the hardcover version of the book is available for a deep discount of 50%, plus shipping and handling. You can order the hardcover for 50% off by writing to Aaron at: [email protected]. Please mention that you are a student of the "coursera happiness course" in your email.

The course will feature guest appearances by several well-known thought leaders, including:

- Dan Ariely (author of Predictably Irrational and, soon to be released, Irrationally Yours),

- Ed Diener (“Dr. Happiness”),

- Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi (author of Flow),

By taking this course, you will discover the answers to questions such as:

- Why aren’t the smart-and-the-successful as happy as they could—or should—be

- What are the “7 Deadly Happiness Sins” that even the smart and the successful commit?, and

- What are the “7 Habits of the Highly Happy” and how can you implement them in your life?

By the end of the course, I expect students who have been diligent with the lectures and exercises to not just gain a deeper understanding of the science of happiness, but to also be significantly happier.

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What's inside

Syllabus

Module 1: Course intro and happiness measurement
Module 2: The 1st sin, habit, and exercise
Module 3: The 2nd sin, habit, and exercise
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Module 4: The 3rd sin, habit and exercise
Module 5: The 4th sin, habit and exercise
Module 6: The 5th sin, habit and exercise
Module 7: The 6th sin, habit, and exercise
Module 8: The 7th sin, habit, and exercise
Module 9: Summary and concluding Remarks

Good to know

Know what's good
, what to watch for
, and possible dealbreakers
Introduces the newest scientific research in the field of positive psychology to help students develop a deeper understanding and practice of happiness
Taught by Dr. Raj Raghunathan, a highly respected expert in the field of happiness research, who has been featured in major media outlets such as The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal, and The Washington Post
Includes guest appearances by several well-known thought leaders, including Dan Ariely, Ed Diener, and Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi
Offers a blend of theoretical knowledge and practical exercises, allowing students to apply their learnings to their own lives
Provides a comprehensive study of the science of happiness, covering both the psychological and neurological factors that contribute to well-being
Could enhance your understanding of human behavior and psychology, which may be useful in various fields such as counseling, human resources, and social work

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Reviews summary

Happily ever after

learners say this is a fun course with research-based exercises that lead to positive changes. The science behind the principles is thorough and practical, and Professor Raj brings happiness habits, behaviors that can steal happiness, and research studies on happiness in a way that has helped many to find the right motivation that is helpful in both personal and professional spheres. Many enjoy and benefit from the interviews with experts, guest speakers, and assignments. This course can challenge some of your lifelong beliefs and help you discover what you need to do to improve various aspects of your life and be happier.
The course assignments are designed to help students apply the concepts they are learning. These assignments can be challenging, but they are also very rewarding.
"The assignments are designed to help you put the concepts you learn into practice."
"The assignments are engaging and thought-provoking, and they help you to apply the concepts you learn to your own life."
"The assignments are challenging, but they are also very rewarding, and they help you to track your progress."
In contrast to the "sins" are seven "habits" that promote happiness: gratitude, kindness, mindfulness, optimism, flow, social connection, and forgiveness. The course provides exercises to help develop these habits.
"The course focuses heavily on 7 good habits that can contribute greatly to your level of happiness."
"They have been scientifically proven to make you a happier person, and the course provides you with actionable advice on how to integrate these habits into your life."
"Gratitude, kindness, mindfulness, optimism, flow, social connection, and forgiveness are the 7 habits and they are explained very well, with easy to follow instructions on how to make them part of your routine."
Professor Raj Raghunathan is a charismatic and engaging instructor. He presents the material in a clear and concise way, and he is always willing to answer questions.
"The instructor is engaging and passionate about the topic, and he presents the material in a way that is easy to understand."
"The professor is very engaging and enthusiastic, which makes the course more enjoyable."
"The course is well-structured and the pacing is good, and the instructor is very clear and engaging."
The course is heavily grounded in research in positive psychology, economics, neuroscience, and other disciplines. This scientific basis provides a strong foundation for the practical advice that is offered.
"The course is based on research in positive psychology, neuroscience, and other disciplines, so you can be sure that the advice given is based on evidence."
"The course is backed by a lot of research in the field of Positive Psychology, so it is a credible source of information on how to increase happiness."
"This course is based on research in psychology, sociology, and other fields, and it provides practical advice for increasing happiness."
The course identifies seven "deadly happiness sins": perfectionism, entitlement, comparison, over-scheduling, over-giving, self-neglect, and negativity. Understanding these sins and learning strategies to combat them has been found to increase happiness.
"The seven deadly happiness sins - you should be aware of and try to avoid: perfectionism, entitlement, comparison, over-scheduling, over-giving, self-neglect, and negativity."
"This course goes over these sins and helps you to understand them better, and you get the tools to avoid them."
"Overcoming these sins can lead to a more fulfilling and happier life."

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 A Life of Happiness and Fulfillment with these activities:
Attend Happiness-Focused Events and Workshops
Network with like-minded individuals, learn from experts, and gain new perspectives on happiness at dedicated events and workshops.
Show steps
  • Research and identify upcoming happiness-related events and workshops.
  • Attend events to listen to speakers, engage in discussions, and connect with others interested in the topic.
  • Follow up with new connections and explore opportunities for collaboration or further learning.
Join a Happiness Study Group
Connect with other learners and share experiences and insights related to the course materials, fostering a deeper understanding of the topic.
Show steps
  • Reach out to classmates through the course discussion forum or social media.
  • Organize regular meetings to discuss course content, share resources, and support each other's progress.
  • Collaborate on projects or assignments, leveraging diverse perspectives and skills.
Practice Gratitude Exercises Regularly
Cultivate a mindset of gratitude, which is associated with increased happiness, by engaging in regular gratitude exercises.
Show steps
  • Set aside a few minutes each day to write down or reflect on things you're grateful for.
  • Share your gratitude with others through conversations, letters, or social media.
  • Challenge negative thoughts and focus on the positive aspects of your life.
Three other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all six activities
Engage in Reflective Discussions with a Partner
Foster deeper engagement with the course materials and facilitate self-reflection through discussions with a peer.
Show steps
  • Find a study partner who is interested in exploring the topic of happiness.
  • Schedule regular discussions to share insights, ask questions, and challenge perspectives.
  • Use discussion prompts or questions provided in the course materials to guide conversations.
Design a Personal Happiness Plan
Apply the concepts learned in the course to develop a personalized strategy for enhancing happiness and well-being.
Show steps
  • Identify personal values and goals related to happiness.
  • Research and explore evidence-based practices for promoting happiness.
  • Create a plan outlining specific actions and habits to cultivate happiness.
  • Monitor progress and make adjustments as needed to optimize the plan's effectiveness.
Develop a Happiness Vision Board
Visualize and manifest your desired state of happiness by creating a vision board that represents your goals and aspirations.
Show steps
  • Gather images, quotes, and affirmations that inspire and resonate with you.
  • Organize and arrange these elements on a board or digital platform.
  • Regularly view and reflect on the vision board to stay motivated and focused on your happiness journey.

Career center

Learners who complete A Life of Happiness and Fulfillment will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
Psychologist
Psychologists study the mind and behavior, often helping treat mental health conditions. The course will teach you about key psychological concepts related to happiness and fulfillment, which will give you a strong foundation for working as a psychologist and promoting mental well-being.
Therapist
Therapists, like psychologists, help people manage mental health conditions. Additionally, therapists focus on improving general well-being. The course's exploration of happiness and fulfillment can help therapists better understand and treat their patients.
Life Coach
Life coaches help people identify and achieve their goals. This course will teach you about the science of happiness and fulfillment, which will give you a strong foundation for helping clients improve their overall well-being and life satisfaction.
Author
Authors write books, articles, and other content to share their knowledge and ideas. If you are interested in writing about happiness and fulfillment, this course will provide you with a strong foundation in the science behind these concepts.
Social Worker
Social workers help people navigate difficult life circumstances and improve their well-being. The course will teach you about the science of happiness and fulfillment, which will give you a strong foundation for working with clients and promoting their overall well-being.
Teacher
Teachers educate and inspire students in a variety of settings. The course will help you understand the science of happiness and fulfillment, which you can use to create a more positive and engaging learning environment for your students.
Consultant
Consultants provide advice and guidance to businesses and organizations. If you are interested in consulting in the areas of happiness and fulfillment, this course will provide you with a strong foundation in the science behind these concepts.
Nonprofit Manager
Nonprofit managers oversee the operations of nonprofit organizations. The course will teach you about the science of happiness and fulfillment, which will give you a strong foundation for leading a nonprofit organization and promoting its mission.
Professor
Professors teach and conduct research at colleges and universities. If you are interested in teaching or researching happiness and fulfillment, this course will provide you with a strong foundation in the science behind these concepts.
Public Speaker
Public speakers give speeches and presentations to audiences. If you are interested in speaking about happiness and fulfillment, this course will provide you with a strong foundation in the science behind these concepts.
Journalist
Journalists write and report on current events and other topics. If you are interested in writing about happiness and fulfillment, this course will provide you with a strong foundation in the science behind these concepts.
Happiness Researcher
Happiness researchers study the causes and effects of happiness. This course will provide you with a strong foundation in the science of happiness and fulfillment, which will prepare you for a career in happiness research.
Politician
Politicians develop and implement policies that affect the lives of others. The course will teach you about the science of happiness and fulfillment, which will give you a strong foundation for creating policies that promote the well-being of your constituents.
Business Leader
Business leaders oversee the operations of businesses and organizations. The course will teach you about the science of happiness and fulfillment, which will give you a strong foundation for leading a business and promoting the well-being of your employees and customers.
Entrepreneur
Entrepreneurs start and run their own businesses. If you are interested in starting a business in the area of happiness and fulfillment, this course will provide you with a strong foundation in the science behind these concepts.

Reading list

We've selected 43 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 A Life of Happiness and Fulfillment.
Comprehensive handbook on the science of happiness. It provides a detailed overview of the latest research on the causes and consequences of happiness.
Is another comprehensive handbook on the science of happiness. It provides a detailed overview of the latest research on the causes and consequences of happiness.
Textbook on positive psychology, the scientific study of happiness and well-being. It provides a comprehensive overview of the field and its research findings.
Explores the concept of flow, a state of complete immersion and focus that is often associated with happiness and fulfillment. The book provides insights into how to achieve flow in different areas of life.
Memoir of Viktor Frankl's experiences in a Nazi concentration camp. The book explores the importance of finding meaning in life, even in the face of adversity.
This book, written by a prominent psychologist, explores the various factors that contribute to happiness and fulfillment. It provides practical strategies for cultivating positive emotions and building a more meaningful life.
This book, written by one of the founders of positive psychology, provides a comprehensive overview of the field and its implications for happiness and well-being. It valuable resource for anyone interested in learning more about the science of happiness and how to apply it to their own lives.
Textbook on the science of well-being. It provides a comprehensive overview of the field and its research findings.
Provides an overview of positive psychology and how it can be used to achieve happiness and fulfillment. The book provides practical exercises and tips that can be used to improve well-being.
Presents research-based evidence on the benefits of happiness and positivity. It offers practical techniques for increasing happiness and improving overall well-being.
Practical guide to improving your well-being. It identifies five essential elements of well-being and provides strategies for improving each one.
Explores the importance of grit and how it can lead to success. The book argues that grit more important factor than talent in achieving success.
Provides a practical guide to happiness based on the teachings of the Dalai Lama. The book covers a wide range of topics, including meditation, compassion, and forgiveness.
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This classic work explores the concept of flow, a state of complete absorption and engagement. It provides insights into how to create more flow experiences in daily life, leading to increased happiness and fulfillment.
Provides a research-based approach to achieving happiness. The book identifies specific activities and habits that can be used to increase well-being.
Examines the downside of having too many choices. The book argues that having too many choices can lead to anxiety, paralysis, and unhappiness.
Explores the importance of vulnerability and how it can lead to greater happiness and success. The book provides insights into how to overcome the fear of vulnerability and live a more authentic life.
Explores the importance of mindset and how it can affect our success. The book argues that a growth mindset can lead to greater success than a fixed mindset.
Explores the science of habits and how they can be used to improve our lives. The book provides practical tips on how to break bad habits and form good ones.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the science of happiness. It offers research-based interventions and exercises for increasing happiness and well-being.
Describes the author's year-long experiment in pursuing happiness. The book provides a personal and anecdotal account of the different things that can contribute to happiness.
Explores the strengths and challenges of introversion. The book argues that introverts have unique qualities that can contribute to success and happiness.
This self-help classic provides a simple and straightforward approach to happiness and success. Peale argues that positive thinking can help readers overcome challenges, achieve their goals, and live happier lives.
Memoir by Gretchen Rubin, who spent a year trying to increase her happiness. It funny and insightful book that provides a unique perspective on the pursuit of happiness.
Explores the science of willpower and provides practical tips for developing self-control. McGonigal argues that willpower is not a fixed trait, but rather a skill that can be learned and strengthened.
Explores the concept of the happiness trap, where the pursuit of happiness can lead to paradoxically feeling less happy. It provides strategies for breaking free from this trap and cultivating genuine happiness.
This self-help classic offers a motivational perspective on happiness and fulfillment. It encourages readers to focus on positive thoughts and attitudes to improve their lives.
Offers a spiritual perspective on happiness, drawing on the teachings of the Dalai Lama. The Dalai Lama argues that true happiness comes from within and can be found through compassion, forgiveness, and service to others.
This book, written by a Holocaust survivor, explores the concept of meaning and purpose in life. It provides insights into how to find meaning even in the face of adversity.
Provides a broad historical and anthropological perspective on human nature. It explores the evolutionary, cultural, and psychological factors that shape our happiness and fulfillment.
While this book focuses on personal and professional effectiveness, it also contains principles and practices that can contribute to happiness and fulfillment. It emphasizes the importance of goal setting, self-discipline, and interpersonal skills.
Provides a practical guide to applying the science of happiness to your own life. Seppälä offers research-based strategies for increasing happiness, reducing stress, and building resilience.
Presents a formula for happiness based on the author's personal experiences and research. It offers practical tips and exercises for increasing happiness and gratitude.
Dialogue between the Dalai Lama and Archbishop Desmond Tutu on the nature of joy. It explores the commonalities between different spiritual traditions and provides insights into how to cultivate joy in daily life.
Companion to the course, providing a deeper dive into the science of happiness. Raghunathan offers practical tips for increasing happiness and fulfillment.

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