Shawn Achor: The happy secret to better work

The speaker shares a childhood story to introduce positive psychology, emphasizing the importance of focusing on outliers rather than averages. He explains how perception shapes reality and the need to reverse the traditional formula for happiness and success. The talk concludes with methods to train the brain for positivity, highlighting the benefits of a positive mindset on productivity and success.

What humorous identity did the speaker give his sister to stop her from crying?

• A unicorn

• A superhero

• A princess

• A dragon

What does the speaker suggest we should study instead of the average?

• The average

• The positive outliers

• The negative outliers

• The failures

According to the speaker, what percentage of long-term happiness is predicted by external circumstances?

• 75%

• 50%

• 25%

• 10%

What is the 'happiness advantage' as described by the speaker?

• A state where happiness is achieved after success

• A condition where positive brains perform better

• A method to achieve happiness through wealth

• A strategy to avoid stress

Which activity is NOT mentioned as a way to train the brain for positivity?

• Journaling

• Watching TV

• Meditation

• Gratitude exercises