TED: There's more to life than being happy | Emily Esfahani Smith

The video explores the difference between happiness and meaning in life, emphasizing that pursuing happiness alone can lead to dissatisfaction. It introduces the four pillars of a meaningful life: belonging, purpose, transcendence, and storytelling. Through personal anecdotes and research, the speaker illustrates how these pillars contribute to a fulfilling life. The video concludes with reflections on the importance of meaning over happiness, highlighting the role of community and personal growth.

What did the speaker initially believe was the purpose of life?

• Pursuing happiness through success

• Achieving financial stability

• Finding true love

• Traveling the world

According to the speaker, what is a deeper pursuit than happiness?

• Fame

• Adventure

• Meaning

• Wealth

Which of the following is NOT one of the four pillars of a meaningful life?

• Purpose

• Storytelling

• Wealth

• Belonging

What is the key to finding purpose, according to the speaker?

• Traveling extensively

• Accumulating wealth

• Using strengths to serve others

• Achieving personal goals

How does the speaker describe transcendence?

• A state of constant happiness

• A rare moment of connection to a higher reality

• A feeling of financial security

• A sense of personal achievement

What role does storytelling play in a meaningful life?

• It guarantees success in career

• It ensures constant happiness

• It helps in accumulating wealth

• It provides clarity and understanding of one's life

What spiritual practice did the speaker's parents follow?

• Hinduism

• Christianity

• Sufism

• Buddhism

What does the speaker suggest is necessary for a society to offer better alternatives?

• Promoting individual success

• Increasing economic growth

• Building pillars of meaning within families and institutions

• Encouraging competition

What did the speaker's father focus on during his heart attack?

• His financial status

• His family and love

• His regrets in life

• His career achievements

What does the speaker conclude about the power of meaning?

• It is only relevant in good times

• It provides strength and resilience

• It is less important than happiness

• It is a temporary feeling