Psychologist Dr. Todd Kashdan shares some unconventional research on how we can harness “negative” psychological characteristics to live whole, successful and fulfilling lives. Topics include the dark triad, emotional experimentation, mindfulness, education, evolution and what it means to live well.
In this episode you will hear about:
- How feelings like anxiety, jealousy and selfishness can be beneficial
- The functional value of exploring different emotional experiences
- Scott and Todd’s campaign to encourage being “your authentic pissed off self”!
- Louis C.K. and the science of bonding over things you shouldn’t say
- How open monitoring meditation aids creativity
- How to find happiness
- Cultural perspectives on our “darker” side
- How social media demotivates
- How acknowledging vulnerability and nervousness can make for better outcomes
- Evolutionary reasoning behind the need for our dark side
- How we all display certain characteristics of darker traits in our daily routines
- How the education system can be improved by encouraging mind-wandering
- Positive and negative elements of narcissism, Machiavellianism and psychopathy
- “The false nose of happiness” and how to think about the good life
- How expecting and preparing for the worst can make you perform at your best
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Resources:
- Todd’s website
- Todd’s book: The Upside of Your Dark Side
- A summary of “the dark triad”
- Martin Seligman’s 1998 APA speech (the beginning of positive psychology)
- Robert Greene’s book: The 48 Laws of Power
- Robert Greene Podcast with Scott Barry Kaufman Ph.D.
“A recognized authority on well-being and social relationships, Dr. Todd Kashdan has published more than 150 scholarly articles and is the author of Curious? Discover the Missing Ingredient to a Fulfilling Life and his latest book, The Upside of Your Dark Side: Why being your whole self – not just your “good” self – drives success and fulfillment . His research has been featured in several media outlets, including the New York Times and The Washington Post.” –Blurb taken from Todd’s Huffington post page