Our Quest For Happiness Is Often Misguided

This is the conclusion that Judith Mangelsdorf, Germany’s pioneering professor of positive psychology, reached while helping individuals across Europe lead better lives. Although we strive to seek it in ourselves, happiness, says Mangelsdorf, is often found in our connection with others. Echoing the words of her mentor Martin Seligman, the founder of positive psychology, Mangelsdorf asserts that the single most effective way to improve our mood when we feel down is to help someone else. Even the smallest step to foster connection can turn into a significant investment in our well-being.