In this episode of Passion Struck, host John R. Miles welcomes Dr. Laurie Santos, a renowned psychologist and professor at Yale University, to discuss the importance of mattering in our increasingly busy and disconnected world. Dr. Santos shares insights from her popular Yale course, "Psychology and the Good Life," and her podcast, "The Happiness Lab," exploring how social connections, intrinsic motivation, and the act of helping others can enhance our sense of belonging and overall happiness.Link to the full show notes:  https://passionstruck.com/laurie-santos-on-how-to-matter-in-a-busy-world/Key takeaways:

• The Importance of Mattering: Mattering is crucial for our psychological well-being. It involves feeling valued and connected to others, which is essential for happiness.
• Cultural Pressures: Many students today, especially in high-pressure environments like Ivy League schools, are focused on individual achievements, leading to feelings of disconnection and anxiety.
• Social Connection: Happy people tend to have strong social ties. Engaging with others and helping them can significantly boost our own happiness.
• Technology's Role: While technology can connect us, it can also lead to disconnection. The convenience of digital communication often lacks the depth of face-to-face interactions.
• The Work of Happiness: Achieving happiness requires effort and intentionality. Simple acts of kindness and social engagement can enhance our sense of mattering.

Connect with Dr. Laurie Santos: https://www.instagram.com/lauriesantosofficial/?hl=enSponsors:

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Next on Passion Struck:
In the next episode of Passion Struck, John sits down with Dr Samuel Wilkinson, YALE professor and author of the book "Purpose.". In this discussion, we go over why, for generations, we've been told that evolution suggests that life has no deeper meaning, that we're simply the result of molecular accidents.For more information on advertisers and promo codes, visit Passion Struck Deals.Join the Passion Struck Community! Sign up for the Live Intentionally newsletter, where I share exclusive content, actionable advice, and insights to help you ignite your purpose and live your most intentional life. Get access to practical exercises, inspiring stories, and tools designed to help you grow.  Learn more and sign up here.Speaking Engagements & Workshops Are you looking to inspire your team, organization, or audience to take intentional action in their lives and careers? I’m available for keynote speaking, workshops, and leadership training on topics such as intentional living, resilience, leadership, and personal growth. Let’s work together to create transformational change. Learn more at johnrmiles.com/speaking.Episode Starter Packs With over 500 episodes, it can be overwhelming to know where to start. We’ve curated Episode Starter Packs based on key themes like leadership, mental health, and personal growth, making it easier for you to dive into the topics you care about. Check them out at passionstruck.com/starterpacks.Catch More of Passion Struck:

• My solo episode on The Science of Healthy Habits
• My episode with Arthur C. Brooks on Finding Success, Happiness, and Purpose
• Can't miss my episode with Robert Waldinger on What Are the Keys to Living a Good Life
• Catch my interview with Susan Cain on What is the Happiness of Being Bittersweet
• Listen to my solo epísode on Why Happiness Leads to Success: 3 Lessons from Richard Branson

If you liked the show, please leave us a review—it only takes a moment and helps us reach more people! Don’t forget to include your Twitter or Instagram handle so we can thank you personally.How to Connect with John:Connect with John on Twitter at @John_RMiles and on Instagram at @John_R_Miles. Subscribe to our main YouTube Channel here and to our YouTube Clips Channel here. For more insights and resources, visit John’s website.Want to explore where you stand on the path to becoming Passion Struck? Take our 20-question quiz on Passionstruck.com and find out today!

Connect with John

• Pre-Order The Mattering Effect: https://matteringeffect.com/
• Book John to Speak: https://johnrmiles.com/speaking/
• Keynotes, books, podcast, and resources: https://linktr.ee/John_R_Miles
• Children’s Book — You Matter, Luma: https://youmatterluma.com/
• Substack: https://www.theignitedlife.net/

Support the Movement: https://startmattering.com/. Every human deserves to feel seen, valued, and like they matter. Wear it. Live it. Show it.

Disclaimer

The Passion Struck podcast is for educational and entertainment purposes only. The views and opinions expressed do not necessarily reflect those of Passion Struck or its affiliates. This podcast is not a substitute for professional medical or psychological advice.