What makes a good life? This is a very quick post which is actually just a link to a Ted talk from 8 years ago from Robert Waldinger. Robert Waldinger, a psychiatrist and director of the Harvard Study of Adult Development. You can learn more about him and his work here.
A good life!
So, why am I bringing this up? Because having a small business is just one part of life, and especially in the early stages, it can consume an enormous amount of your focus, energy, and time. Also as we have talked about elsewhere running a solo and small business can be very lonely. But as Waldinger’s talk reminds us, there is more to a fulfilling life than just work.
In this TED talk, Waldinger shares insights from one of the longest studies on human happiness. The findings are clear: the quality of our relationships and the strength of our connections with others play a pivotal role in our overall well-being. It’s easy, especially as a solo or small business owner, to get caught up in the hustle and forget the bigger picture—what truly makes life meaningful.
As you build and grow your business, it’s essential to remember that success isn’t just about profit margins, business purpose or expanding your client base. It’s also about maintaining balance, nurturing relationships, and ensuring that your business enhances your life rather than consumes it entirely. Take a few minutes to watch Waldinger’s talk—it’s a powerful reminder of what really matters.
