← The Happiness Lab with Dr. Laurie Santos

Happiness Lessons of The Ancients: The Trauma of Troy

Mar 13, 2023 37m 21s 6 insights
<p>In Virgil's epic poem, The Aeneid, few Trojans survive the destruction of their city at the hands of their Greek enemies. A prince, Aeneas, leads a band of those fleeing Troy - but the journey is fraught with deadly storms and hungry monsters.  </p> <p>But Aeneas takes a positive view of the struggles he and the other Trojans face, telling them to be proud of their resilience and courage. With the help of MIT classics professor Stephanie Frampton, Dr Laurie Santos explores how The Aeneid can be read as a tale of post-traumatic growth and how we can sometimes emerge happier and stronger from tragic events.  </p><p>See <a href="https://omnystudio.com/listener">omnystudio.com/listener</a> for privacy information.</p>
Actionable Insights

1. Disclose Personal Tragedies Openly

Talk in detail with someone you trust about upsetting events or jot them down in a private journal to heal, improve physical health, and reduce distress. This process forces structure and organization, helping you make sense of the event and better understand yourself.

2. Recall Past Courage

When facing current adversity, actively remember past instances where you overcame challenges and demonstrated resilience. This acts as a powerful reminder that you have the inner strength and spirit to get through difficult times again.

3. Cultivate Post-Traumatic Growth

After experiencing painful life events, intentionally focus on future prosperity and how past sorrows can become blessings that lead to personal growth. This optimistic framework helps you discover new relationships, harness courage, and find a deeper sense of meaning.

4. Manage Distress with Gratitude

Actively regulate painful emotions by banishing sad fear and intentionally noticing how things could have been worse. This practice of gratitude helps manage emotional distress and fosters a more resilient mindset.

5. Use Adversity to Help Others

Find ways to use your challenging experiences to give back to others, as this can increase empathy and provide a significant happiness boost. Sharing your story can contribute something meaningful and foster connection.

6. Find Meaning in Hardship

Reflect on what you learned from tough experiences and what new meaning those events have brought to your life. This process of meaning-making can lead to a fuller life and a greater sense of purpose.