Tal Ben-Shahar – Foundations of Positive Psychology

Renowned Positive Psychology scholar Dr. Tal Ben-Shahar will lead you in this new, non-credit exploration of the history and scientific underpinnings of one of psychology’s most fascinating branches, as well as its potential applications in your daily life.

Rooted in the work of Dr. Martin Seligman, world-renowned founder of Positive Psychology and Fox Leadership Professor of Psychology at the University of Pennsylvania, this new area of psychology focuses on positive emotions, strengths-based character, and positive communication. Researchers and practitioners have found that individuals utilizing its principles can enhance work and home life by:
* Accessing strengths that act as buffers against unfavorable circumstances.
* Balancing immediate personal needs with long-term goals.
* Developing a more resilient psychological immune system based on optimism and self esteem.
Course Topics:
– Introduction
– Why do we need a Positive Psychology?
– Basic Premises I (what’s this class about, anyway?)
– Basic Premises II (oh, i see)
– Beliefs as self-fulfilling prophecies I (psychology of success)
– Beliefs as self-fulfilling prophecies II (and more success)
– Question of focus I (hey, look here)
– Question of focus II (so much to look at…)
– Can we change? yes, we can change
– Setting goals I (from lofty to-do lists…)
– Setting goals II (… to earthly visions)
– Setting goals III (so many goals, and so little time)
– Physical health (sleep is good i.e. why this class starts at 11:30)
– Mindfulness
– Perfectionism I
– Perfectionism II (will hopefully get it right this time…)
– Relationships I (love, friendship, and other good stuff)
– Relationships II (more good stuff)
– Humor (finally, some fun in this class)
– Self-esteem I
– Self-esteem II
– The good life (wait, what was the course about until now?)
Dr. Ben-Shahar has authored several well-received books and taught one of the most popular courses in Harvard University’s history, all on the topic of Positive Psychology. He consults and lectures around the world to executives in multi-national corporations, the general public, and at-risk populations on topics of happiness, self-esteem, resilience, goal setting, mindfulness, and leadership. Dr. Ben-Shahar is also an avid sportsman who won the U.S. Intercollegiate and Israeli national squash championships. He obtained his PhD in Organizational Behavior and BA in Philosophy and Psychology from Harvard. For this course, you will read his latest book, Happier: Learn the Secrets to Daily Joy and Lasting Fulfillment.