I'm H.A.P.P.Y Exploring Happiness with Paul McGee

The Connected Leadership Podcast

Welcome to Connected Leadership Gold where Andy revisits a compelling conversation from May 2021 with Paul McGee, the renowned author and speaker widely recognised as the "Sumo Guy." Paul is celebrated for his motivational and practical approach, notably showcased in his book "Sumo: Shut Up, Move On."

Paul's shares insights from his upcoming book, "The Happiness Revolution," co-authored with Dr. Andy Cope, setting the stage for a thought-provoking discussion.

Andy and Paul examine the profound impact of the last 15 months on happiness. They look at the influence of technology and particularly of social media on well-being. Paul shares insights into the addictive nature of social platforms and the challenges posed by social perfectionism, where individuals often compare their lives to carefully curated online personas.

Education emerges as a pivotal force in promoting holistic well-being, with an emphasis on the interconnectedness of mind, body, and emotions. Paul advocates for equipping individuals, especially the younger generation, with tools to navigate the digital landscape positively.

The episode uncovers the evolving nature of happiness and the imperative to redefine success in the digital age. Andy and Paul explore the impact of technology and social media on happiness. Andy advocates for balance, sharing personal anecdotes about the role of photos in preserving memories. Paul agrees, emphasising moderation in the use of technology and social platforms.

The conversation takes an introspective turn as they delve into the tendency to defer happiness based on future achievements. Paul shares his experience of setting arbitrary goals and attaching happiness to them, highlighting theimportance of appreciating the present.

Reflecting on the pursuit of perfectionism, Paul encourages authenticity and vulnerability in leadership. Personal anecdotes weave through the discussion, addressing the role of role models and the impact of comparison on personal growth.

Andy and Paul conclude with an exploration of unhappiness and mental health. Paul acknowledges the challenge of distinguishing between unhappiness and mental health issues, emphasising the importance of checking in on others. The segment leaves listeners with a call to embrace the complexity of emotions, understand their nuances, and strive for emotional agility in navigating life's challenges.

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