Shawn Achor is a prominent figure in the field of positive psychology, known for his engaging talks and influential books. Born on March 9, 1978, in Waco, Texas, Achor has built a career around the idea that happiness can lead to success. His work has reached millions, making him a sought-after speaker and author. This article explores Achor's educational background and career path, highlighting his contributions to positive psychology.
Educational Background
Shawn Achor's
journey into the world of positive psychology began at Harvard University, where he earned a Bachelor of Arts degree. His time at Harvard was not just about academics; it was also where he started to develop his interest in happiness and its impact on success. Achor furthered his education at the Harvard Divinity School, where he obtained a Master of Arts in Christian and Buddhist Ethics. This diverse educational background provided him with a unique perspective on happiness, blending philosophical and psychological insights.
During his time at Harvard, Achor worked as a freshman proctor and teaching assistant. He was involved in Tal Ben-Shahar's popular "Happiness" course, which played a significant role in shaping his future career. This experience allowed him to delve deeper into the study of happiness and its effects on individuals and organizations.
Career Milestones
In 2007, Shawn Achor co-founded GoodThink, Inc., a company dedicated to applying positive psychology principles to improve work performance. Alongside his sister, Amy Blankson, and later his wife, Michelle Gielan, Achor expanded the company's reach by co-founding The Institute for Applied Positive Research. These organizations focus on providing research, speaking engagements, and training sessions to help individuals and companies harness the power of positive psychology.
Achor's TEDx talk, which is among the top 25 most popular TED talks, has garnered over 20 million views. This talk, along with his books, has cemented his reputation as a leading voice in the field. His research, conducted with Ali Crum and Professor Peter Salovey at Yale University, demonstrated that changing one's mindset about stress can alter its physical effects, further validating his theories.
Publications and Influence
Shawn Achor is the author of several influential books, including "The Happiness Advantage" and "Big Potential." These works explore the principles of positive psychology and how they can be applied to achieve success and well-being. His most recent book, "Big Potential," published in 2018, expands on his research by examining how empowering others can help individuals reach their fullest potential.
In addition to his books, Achor frequently contributes to the Harvard Business Review, with over thirty-five articles published in both the online and print versions. His work has not only influenced individuals but also organizations seeking to improve their work environments through positive psychology.
Shawn Achor's career is a testament to the power of positive psychology. Through his educational background, career milestones, and influential publications, he has made significant contributions to the field, inspiring millions to pursue happiness as a path to success.
