Our current cultural moment has laid bare megatrends that are defining our emerging future, while also highlighting a global crisis in wellbeing. In particular, 3-D change (change that is perpetual, pervasive, and exponential) and human-technology convergence (humans and complex technology increasingly integrating) are transforming the rhythms of daily life with profound implications for the future of work and the future of living. Simply put, many of us feel continually rushed, pressured, and stressed without a clear sense of why this is happening or how we successfully navigate these experiences. Within this context, we are asking and engaging the question, “What is flourishing and how do we live it more fully?” 

This course (or, more accurately, workshop) explores the science and art of human flourishing and how to live it in an age of hyper-complexity and ever-accelerating pace. We will explore these ideas through research-informed readings, class discussions, and guided practices related to the psychological, emotional, and social factors that promote a well-lived life. Using a pedagogical approach that blends the investigation of mental maps (theories, ideas, research) with tool-building (skills, application, praxis) and experiential learning (learn by doing), we seek to create a learning environment that helps you shift both your understanding and lived experience of wellbeing and flourishing. Course elements include contemplative practices, cognitive and behavior tools, discussion groups, journaling, self-assessment, and intention/goal setting.

Graduate students from a range of disciplines will learn how to transform this learning from concept to lived experience. This course is open to anyone who desires to engage honestly and authentically with their own life in service of creating the foundation for a life well lived. As such, come prepared to do meaning introspection as well as share interpersonally with colleagues within a psychologically supportive and safe environment.

Course Schedule

Monday, Sept. 8 – Friday, Sept. 12, 9 AM – 2 PM

• Full attendance is expected.
• Expect to spend a total of 4 hours during the week outside of class.