How to Actually Create Happiness - It's Not What You Think

Most people never feel truly happy—despite success, comfort, or achievement. Why? Because they’re chasing the wrong thing.

In this episode of Personal Mastery, Harvard-trained coach and researcher, Jerry Henderson shares the real reason happiness feels elusive—and what to do instead. 

You’ll learn why happiness isn’t something you find, but something you create—as a byproduct of a deeply fulfilling life.

With powerful neuroscience insights, practical steps, and a research-backed framework, Jerry helps you break free from the dopamine trap and start building a life that feels meaningful, aligned, and emotionally rich.

If you’ve ever felt like “there has to be more,” this is the episode that shows you what “more” actually is—and how to create it.

👉 Plus: Stick around until the end for a simple neuroscience-based exercise to shift your emotional state in just a few minutes.

Chapters

00:00 – Why Most People Are Unhappy  
02:21 – Stop Chasing Happiness  
03:44 – The Science of Happiness vs. Dopamine  
08:29 – The Hedonic Treadmill Trap  
09:12 – Fulfillment Is the Real Goal  
10:23 – Happiness Is a Byproduct  
11:45 – What Makes Life Truly Fulfilling  
14:22 – The Personal Mastery Framework  
15:39 – Step 1: Pay Attention to What is Fulfilling  
17:16 – Step 2: Identify the Meaning of What Fulfills You 
18:03 – Step 3: Savor the Moments That Fulfill You
18:53 – Step 4: Prioritize Relationships That Fulfill You
20:07 – Step 5: Build Your Life Around Fulfillment  
22:32 – Bonus: Shift Your Mood in Minutes  

Resources:

• The new Overcoming Shame group coaching program: LEARN MORE

• 1:1 Coaching Free strategy call: jerryhenderson.org

• Access the course "Learning How to Love Yourself" here: Access Course

• Book a free strategy call with me: Schedule Call

• Follow me on IG: @jerryahenderson

Next Steps:

• If this episode resonated, share it with someone who needs to hear it.

• Subscribe and leave a review — it helps more people discover the podcast.

• Ready to go deeper? Download the workbook or book a strategy call today.

Connect & Subscribe:

The podcast is transitioning to Personal Mastery with Jerry Henderson on May 5th. Subscribe now so you don’t miss an episode.

I am grateful you are here,
Jerry

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