#97 | Happiness is an overcoming bonus

"Happiness is not the absence of unhappiness."

We all want to be happy - but what does that actually mean? Is happiness a state, a goal or rather a process? And what is the difference between happiness and contentment? Especially when life challenges us with hurdles, happiness seems unattainable anyway. This is a misconception, because anyone who confuses happiness with constant euphoria is bound to be disappointed. In truth, happiness is much more robust and we ourselves are much more resilient than we think.

"The shortcut to happiness is when I do something for others."

Maike van den Boom has been researching what makes people happy - and what doesn't - for years. Her studies have taken her around the world, and yet the most important finding is very close at hand: happiness starts on the inside. Because mindset, trust and a sense of community are more important than status or possessions. In an interview with Georgiy Michailov, she explains why the Nordic countries in particular are leaders when it comes to life satisfaction and what we in Germany can learn from them.

"Trust gives people energy. Control takes it away."

In LeaderTalk, Maike van den Boom also talks about new ways of leadership and what Germany can learn from the “Nordic style of leadership”. In the latest episode, you can find out what power lies in personal responsibility, how happiness and the ability to innovate are linked and why comparing yourself to others is a real happiness killer.

*Video only in German