Robert Holden is selling the most precious commodity in the world: happiness.
The British psychologist and professional coach has touted his "fast track to happiness" on "Oprah," CNN and PBS, in 10 bestselling books and on a weekly radio program. But he's not just a "think positive" pitchman. Holden, who has a doctorate in psychology, is a research-based scientist who has been studying facets of positive psychology — happiness, success, confidence — for decades. Holden will be in town to speak at Empower, a health and wellness event. We talked to him about bliss bunnies, joy and gratitude.
Q: You advise us to "stop searching for happiness and follow your joy." Why?
A: Searching sounds good, but the mind-set it creates is that you're searching outside of yourself. Our research shows us that nothing in the world makes us happy — and everything in the world encourages us to be happy.
Q: How so?
A: Happiness isn't about the absence of sadness. I haven't met anyone who hasn't had some sadness. The people who are happiest are the ones who have learned to enjoy themselves, learned to enjoy their lives.
Q: That sounds sort of hedonistic, especially to a born-and-bred Minnesotan. Is it?
A: Following your joy doesn't make you just a bliss bunny. Your joy is a calling, a purpose. You have you ask yourself, "When do I feel most alive?" "What has meaning to me?" "What gives me a sense of significance?" That's tough stuff. In some way, following your joy is the ultimate act of courage.
