Does befriending uncertainty brings emotional well being ? Can we unlock the secret to find the space of sustained equanimity? In this episode of 'The Ultimate Inquiry', Marketing professor and happiness researcher Raj Raghunathan explores with Pracheta Budhwar what truly drives emotional well-being at work and in life.

He explains how emotions shape decisions, why uncertainty and even negative feelings are vital to fulfilment, and how conscious choices and not societal expectations - lead to real happiness. Raj also shares practical insights on workplace well-being and the books that have shaped his understanding of personal growth.Books referred in the episode :

• If you're so smart, why aren't you happy? by Raj Raghunathan
• Breath by James Nestor
• Outlive by Peter Attia

Chapters :

00:00 Introduction to Raj Raghunathan

01:11 Happiness in Academia

02:47 The Journey from Engineering to Happiness Research

05:29 The PhD Experience and Its Impact on Happiness

08:42 Influences and Inspirations in Psychology

11:24 The Pursuit of Happiness: A Personal Journey

14:06 Understanding Happiness: A Psychological Perspective

16:52 The Role of Emotions in Happiness

19:23 Collective Happiness vs. Individual Pursuits

22:01 The Misconceptions of Prioritizing Happiness

24:47 The Irony of Happiness in Modern Society

27:52 Cultivating Happiness: A Choice or a State of Mind?

41:10 Cultivating Happiness vs. Pursuing It

48:24 The Underlying Currents of Our Lives

53:09 Values: Constant and Overrated

58:28 Understanding Happiness: Joy, Contentment, and Beyond

01:04:33 Befriending Uncertainty

01:10:45 Workplace Well-being and Employee Happiness

01:15:19 Influential Reads and Closing Thoughts