The Flawed Formula for Success
The central learning point is that our common belief about success is backward. We tend to think, "If I work harder, I'll be more successful, and then I'll be happy." Achor argues this is a broken model because every time we hit a success, our brain changes the goalpost for what success looks like. This puts happiness over the cognitive horizon, always out of reach.
The Happiness Advantage
The correct formula is to focus on happiness first. Achor presents research showing that the human brain works significantly better when in a positive state compared to a negative, neutral, or stressed state. Happiness and optimism actually fuel performance and achievement. When we are positive, our intelligence, creativity, and energy levels rise. A positive brain is 31% more productive than a negative one, and sales improve by 37%.
Changing Your Reality
Only 10% of our long-term happiness is predicted by our external world. A staggering 90% is predicted by the way our brain processes the world. This means that by changing our mindset and habits, we can change our reality and level of happiness, which in turn improves our work outcomes.
Action Points: 2-Minute Habits to Retrain Your Brain
Achor provides a set of five simple, daily actions that, if done for 21 consecutive days, can rewire your brain to be more positive and optimistic:
- Three Gratitudes: At the end of the day, write down three new, specific things you are grateful for. This trains your brain to scan the world for positives instead of negatives.
- Journaling: Write about one positive experience you've had in the last 24 hours. This allows your brain to relive the experience, doubling its positive impact.
- Exercise: Physical activity teaches your brain that your behavior matters and creates a sense of accomplishment.
- Meditation: Take two minutes to watch your breath go in and out. This helps you focus, reduces stress, and calms the multitasking brain.
- Random Acts of Kindness: Write one positive email or text to praise or thank someone in your social support network. This strengthens social connections, a key indicator of long-term happiness.