Ideas worth spreading

Happiness

We all want to be happy. But how, exactly, do you go about it? The answers in these TED Talks on happiness -- from psychologists, journalists and monks -- may surprise you.

Video playlists about Happiness

How to sustain meaningful relationships (near and far)

These talks can help guide you in nurturing close, meaningful bonds with a long-distance partner, family, a new acquaintance or anyone in between.

TED Talks for when you're having an existential crisis

A smorgasbord of inspired TED Talks to help you get through your funk, and answer some deeper questions along the way.

10 days of positive thinking

A fun, uplifting challenge: For the next 10 days, watch one TED Talk from this list to shift yourself into a life of positive thinking.

How to notice and build joy into your life

A simple ode to joy and the light it brings.

See all playlists on Happiness

Talks about Happiness

Alexandra Horowitz

Why all dogs are good dogs

How to quit your job -- without ruining your career

Ayelet Fishbach

4 proven ways to kick your procrastination habit

How to manage your emotions

Robert Waldinger

The secret to a happy life -- lessons from 8 decades of research

The secret ingredients of great hospitality

Laura Gassner Otting

Why doesn't success bring happiness?

Why money can't buy happiness

Catherine Price

Why having fun is the secret to a healthier life

Why bittersweet emotions underscore life's beauty

Susan Cain and Min Kym

The hidden power of sad songs and rainy days

3 lessons on hope in challenging times

My secret to creating real magic

How to escape the cynicism trap

Shu Matsuo Post

Why paternity leave benefits everyone

Ashley Whillans

3 rules for better work-life balance

See all talks on Happiness

Exclusive articles about Happiness

How to add new life to your relationships (even your best ones!)

Want lasting happiness? Invest in your connections to other people, suggest Robert Waldinger MD and Marc Schulz PhD, codirectors of the longest-running scientific study on well-being. Here, they share four strategies to re-energize your bonds.

Posted Jan 2023

Ever say “I’ll be happy when …?” Here’s why you need to stop doing that — now

Every time you say that or its cousins "If I just had ____" or "When I get through ____", what you’re really saying is “I can’t be happy now.” Author and designer Ingrid Fetell Lee explains why -- and how she broke this habit.

Posted Jun 2022

What is the ideal age to retire? Never, according to a neuroscientist

Too much time spent with no purpose is associated with unhappiness. If you want to live a satisfying, long life, neuroscientist Daniel Levitin has some advice for you: Stay busy.

Posted Feb 2020

See all articles on Happiness