What does it really mean to live a happy life and why are so many of us chasing it in the wrong way? In this powerful conversation, Steve speaks with Dr. Tim Sharp also known as Dr. Happy the one of Australia’s leading psychologists and founder of The Happiness Institute.
Together, they unpack the myths of happiness, why it’s not about being positive all the time, and the tools and strategies that help us bounce back from life’s challenges. Dr. Tim also shares his own raw experiences with depression and suicidality, showing how resilience, acceptance, and connection shape a more meaningful life.
About Our Guest
Dr. Tim Sharp is an internationally renowned leader in the fields of positive psychology, resilience, and mental health. Known as Dr. Happy, he has written several best-selling books, appears regularly in the media, and has built The Happiness Institute into a global platform for promoting wellbeing. With decades of clinical and academic experience, he is passionate about redefining success, mentoring young leaders, and helping individuals craft their own “recipe” for a good life.
Follow Our Guest
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drtimsharp/
- Website: https://drhappy.com.au/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thehappinessinstitute/
Follow Us On
- Host Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thestevehodgson/
- Show Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sharewithsteve/
Episode Highlights
00:00 - Episode Trailer
01:08 - Meet Dr. Happy: the man behind the nickname
02:38 - Misconceptions about happiness and mental health
05:01 - Defining happiness: fleeting joy vs. lasting life satisfaction
09:22 - Dr. Tim’s personal journey with depression and suicidality
13:56 - Tools for bouncing back: joy lists, gratitude & self-care
16:42 - Emotional regulation and learning to savour the good
19:34 - Why there’s no single “secret” to happiness
22:24 - Lessons from the darkest times: this too shall pass & you’re not alone
25:12 - Why failure and detours are essential for growth
29:25 - Reflection, journaling & the power of looking in the mirror
32:24 - What we can control: mindset, response & perspective
35:38 - Living in the present vs. finding joy in past and future
39:26 - The ‘tyranny of when’: money, success & the hedonic treadmill
45:38 - Does money buy happiness? Freedom, choices & giving back
48:04 - Daily strategies to create a better life
51:47 - Relationships, connection & not forgetting to have fun
54:26 - Biggest lessons from a life studying happiness
57:02 - Dr. Happy’s mission for the next decade
58:50 - One key message on happiness & the noise of life
01:01:08 - Where to find and connect with Dr. Tim Sharp
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