Happiness Lunch with Professor Paul Dolan
Professor Paul Dolan joined VAR Capital for an intimate discussion on the nature of happiness, revealing that true fulfilment lies in balancing pleasure with purpose. His reflections offered a timely call for moderation, acceptance, and emotional resilience in an increasingly volatile world. The event was hosted on behalf of VAR Capital by the Chairman of ...
Professor Paul Dolan joined VAR Capital for an intimate discussion on the nature of happiness, revealing that true fulfilment lies in balancing pleasure with purpose. His reflections offered a timely call for moderation, acceptance, and emotional resilience in an increasingly volatile world.
The event was hosted on behalf of VAR Capital by the Chairman of VAR Capital’s advisory Board, Sukhpal Singh Ahluwalia.
Overview on Happiness:
Understanding the Nature of Happiness:
While happiness is deeply personal, Professor Dolan highlighted that understanding its foundations requires rigorous empirical study. It is shaped not only by how we feel, but by how we respond to internal traits and external conditions.
The Role of Wealth, Expectations, and Social Media:
Beyond income, Professor Dolan discussed how modern cultural and digital forces shape our understanding of success and, in turn, our sense of well-being.
Altruism, Transparency, and Cultural Sensitivity:
Professor Dolan highlighted the positive psychological effects of altruism, noting that doing good for others meaningfully contributes to one’s own happiness.
Navigating a Complex World with Compassion:
In addressing the challenge of remaining happy in a world marked by crisis and suffering, Professor Dolan introduced a subtle but vital distinction between compassion and empathy.
Faith, Emotional Stability, and the Importance of Acceptance:
Professor Dolan explored how internal frameworks such as faith and emotional regulation contribute to happiness, while reinforcing the essential role of acceptance in achieving lasting personal change.
Conclusion: The Architecture of Balance
In closing, Professor Dolan distilled his philosophy into a powerful and deceptively simple formula: Happiness = Acceptance + Vacation (from oneself).
Meet Paul Dolan:
Professor Paul Dolan is a leading expert in the science of happiness and human behaviour. As Professor of Behavioural Science at the London School of Economics (LSE), he has spent nearly three decades exploring how we measure well-being and what truly drives fulfilment.
Alongside advising government and private sector leaders, he has brought academic insights to the wider public through his bestselling books Happiness by Design, Happy Ever After, and his new book coming out on May 8th, Beliefism. Known for his engaging and accessible style, Professor Dolan blends academic rigour with wit, helping audiences find greater balance between pleasure and purpose in their lives.
About VAR Capital:
VAR Capital is an independent financial services firm offering asset management, lending and family office services. It was founded by individuals with extensive experience from Banking, Asset Management and Family Offices. Based in Mayfair, London, VAR Capital Ltd is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA).
Disclaimer:
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Source: VAR Capital
Media Contact: Vikash Gupta, [email protected]
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VAR Capital Ltd is a limited company incorporated in England and Wales with registration number 09159540. UK registered office 41 & 43, Maddox Street, Mayfair, London W1S 2PD. VAR Capital Ltd is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA). Firm reference number 718558. VAR Capital is a trademark of VAR Capital Limited under the UK intellectual property regulation. Trademark number: UK00003429839