In this episode of Realistic Happiness, we’re joined by Anna Koziarska-Bergink, a positive psychology expert and mindfulness trainer, to explore what happiness really means in today’s world.

We discuss:
- Happiness vs. Pleasure – Understanding the difference between momentary pleasure (hedonism) and long-term fulfillment (eudaimonia), and why we need both.
- Slowing Down & Connecting with Yourself – How to resist the pressures of constant productivity and external validation to truly connect with what brings you joy.
- The Role of Gratitude & Acceptance – Why practicing gratitude feels difficult, how to overcome resistance, and how accepting discomfort can lead to sustainable happiness.
- Intercultural Happiness – How different cultures define and experience happiness, from Japan’s Ikigai to Denmark’s Hygge and the Netherlands’ Gezelligheid.
- Generational Perspectives on Happiness – How work-life balance, social media, and shifting priorities have shaped different generations’ views on happiness.
- The Power of Silence – What Ania learned from a five-day silent retreat, the impact of technology on our mental well-being, and how moments of silence can transform our mindset.

If you’ve ever felt like you’re chasing happiness but never quite reaching it, this episode offers powerful insights into how to redefine happiness on your own terms.

Connect with Ania:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/anna-koziarska-bergink-9311a263/
Website: https://ann-power.com/

Connect with your Realistic Happiness Community:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/realistichappiness
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/realistichappinesspodcast/

Connect with your host, Daisy:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/daisy-ilaria/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/daisy.ilaria
Threads: https://www.threads.net/@daisy.ilaria
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@DaisyIlaria

Connect with our producer, Jamie:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jamie-everett1/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jamie.everett1/