Table Talk | The Happiness Paradox

Everybody wants to be happy. Our life long we search for happiness, connection and little joys. But being - and especially staying - happy is not that easy. There are many things that can take your focus away from the things that bring you joy. Thousands of studies and books have been written on happiness, increasing wellbeing and living a satisfying life. However, self-reports of happiness have stayed stagnant for over forty years. So, why are we not happier?

Many of us are always focused on the next step, the next accomplishment or goal. Although we know that this does not necessarily make us happier, it is hard to let go of this sense of control. Have we deprioritized our happiness in order to get better grades, a prestigious internship and an inspiring job? Do you plan everything as well as possible in order to experience the least setback and unhappiness? Are we expecting too much of life? And what kind of things do you think will bring you joy?

In the last Table Talk of this academic year, some weeks before we get to enjoy sun and holiday, we are going to reflect on what keeps us going the rest of the year and what it is we are searching for. Do you feel like talking about this topic and share your thoughts? Come and join this conversation. Participating is free, registration is required.

This program will be in English and is a collaboration between Studium Generale and the new student initiative Happy Student Society.

Table Talk
Do you feel the need to just talk freely with other students about recent developments, interesting topics or current events? To share thoughts and views with others from different disciplines and backgrounds? Studium Generale offers the possibility to talk, discuss and listen with fellow students on a regular basis.

Every session, our discussion will be centered on a central theme of which you do not have to have background knowledge. It is meant as a casual but in-depth exploration of the topic, ourselves and the people around us. The talks will be in English and moderated by Camie Karstanje, programme manager science of Studium Generale and herself a recent graduate (2015).