What does it really mean to live a happy life and why are so many of us chasing it in the wrong way? In this powerful conversation, Steve speaks with Dr. Tim Sharp also known as Dr. Happy the one of Australia’s leading psychologists and founder of The Happiness Institute.

Together, they unpack the myths of happiness, why it’s not about being positive all the time, and the tools and strategies that help us bounce back from life’s challenges. Dr. Tim also shares his own raw experiences with depression and suicidality, showing how resilience, acceptance, and connection shape a more meaningful life.

About Our Guest

Dr. Tim Sharp is an internationally renowned leader in the fields of positive psychology, resilience, and mental health. Known as Dr. Happy, he has written several best-selling books, appears regularly in the media, and has built The Happiness Institute into a global platform for promoting wellbeing. With decades of clinical and academic experience, he is passionate about redefining success, mentoring young leaders, and helping individuals craft their own “recipe” for a good life.

Follow Our Guest

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drtimsharp/
• Website: https://drhappy.com.au/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thehappinessinstitute/

Follow Us On

• Host Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thestevehodgson/
• Show Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sharewithsteve/

Episode Highlights

00:00 - Episode Trailer

01:08 - Meet Dr. Happy: the man behind the nickname

02:38 - Misconceptions about happiness and mental health

05:01 - Defining happiness: fleeting joy vs. lasting life satisfaction

09:22 - Dr. Tim’s personal journey with depression and suicidality

13:56 - Tools for bouncing back: joy lists, gratitude & self-care

16:42 - Emotional regulation and learning to savour the good

19:34 - Why there’s no single “secret” to happiness

22:24 - Lessons from the darkest times: this too shall pass & you’re not alone

25:12 - Why failure and detours are essential for growth

29:25 - Reflection, journaling & the power of looking in the mirror

32:24 - What we can control: mindset, response & perspective

35:38 - Living in the present vs. finding joy in past and future

39:26 - The ‘tyranny of when’: money, success & the hedonic treadmill

45:38 - Does money buy happiness? Freedom, choices & giving back

48:04 - Daily strategies to create a better life

51:47 - Relationships, connection & not forgetting to have fun

54:26 - Biggest lessons from a life studying happiness

57:02 - Dr. Happy’s mission for the next decade

58:50 - One key message on happiness & the noise of life

01:01:08 - Where to find and connect with Dr. Tim Sharp