“As humans we need to evolve constantly because the behaviours that got us to a certain level won't suffice to even maintain this level let alone to take us to the next. If this sense of growth and contribution isn't experienced in our lives, difficulties will arise.”
— Daniel Donachie

The quote archive

Psychology

A growing archive of 3,000+ moments, drawn from every interview.

The general body of research suggests a moderate positive correlation between religiosity and happiness. Religion provides a sense of community and cohesion within an in-group. It draws clear lines between in-group members, with whom I can engage in cooperative behaviour and reciprocal exchanges, and out-group members. Religion also offers purpose and meaning through a supernatural narrative.

— Gad Saad

Evolutionary Psychologist & Author Known for Consumer Behavior Research

David was wrongfully convicted for a murder, spending 29 years in prison before his exoneration. His response underscored the power of adopting a positive and healthy mindset. He compared his ordeal to his sister's lifelong struggle with cerebral palsy, saying that in light of her condition, what he went through didn't seem so bad. Despite having 30 years of his life unjustly taken away, he spoke of his own fortunes.

— Gad Saad

Evolutionary Psychologist & Author Known for Consumer Behavior Research

Seneca elucidates how a tree needs exposure to wind stressors to grow strong and establish deep roots. Without such stressors, it becomes brittle and can break off easily. I argue that a crucial aspect of excelling at the game of life is to expose oneself to stressors that, hopefully, won't be fatal. As the saying goes, 'what does not kill you makes you stronger.'

— Gad Saad

Evolutionary Psychologist & Author Known for Consumer Behavior Research

My argument is that happiness shouldn't be pursued deliberately. Happiness is more of a by-product, a downstream effect of making sound decisions, and adopting the right mindset. I cite a quote from Viktor Frankl, a Holocaust survivor, in his book, 'Man's Search for Meaning'. He posits that success shouldn't be sought deliberately but rather, it's something that materialises when one is engaged in meaningful endeavours. This logic applies perfectly to happiness as well.

— Gad Saad

Evolutionary Psychologist & Author Known for Consumer Behavior Research

When I talk about happiness, envision yourself at the ripe age of 85, comfortably seated on that metaphorical porch, reflecting upon your life. You're thinking, 'Good heavens, I've genuinely led a fulfilling life. I've established a loving family, spent my life with an extraordinary partner, and devoted myself to a profession that's injected an immense sense of purpose into my existence. I have minimal regrets and have maintained a light-hearted, playful approach to life.' This, to me, is what I would categorise as a profound sense of existential happiness.

— Gad Saad

Evolutionary Psychologist & Author Known for Consumer Behavior Research

The quest for happiness is a universal, scientific, fact. We can measure happiness, we can assess it, and we can devise strategies to make ourselves happy and fulfilled human beings.

— Gad Saad

Evolutionary Psychologist & Author Known for Consumer Behavior Research

There's this wonderful intersection where I've personally felt successful for quite some time. I truly believe I'm living out my purpose. It reminds me of the saying, 'remember the time you wished for the things you have now.' I'm living that dream.

— Roxie Nafousi

When jealousy or envy creeps in, acknowledge it; everyone feels it at times. Ask yourself: What is this feeling revealing about my desires or insecurities? Which part of me still needs healing? Then, pivot to an inspired perspective.

— Roxie Nafousi

Success, in my view, should be a state we inhabit, not just a distant goal we chase. If success is narrowly defined by tangible metrics like money, power, or fame, the benchmarks constantly shift, and satisfaction remains elusive.

— Roxie Nafousi

We all bear wounds and traumas that convince us we're undeserving or incapable of achieving our dreams. Confronting these is essential. We can't outrun our past; we need to heal, be it through therapy, counselling, or other methods that help process past traumas.

— Roxie Nafousi

Manifesting involves leveraging the mind's power to shape our reality. For me, it's more than just a concept; it's a self-development tool and a way of life. It's about finding the best version of oneself, gaining empowerment, and unlocking the potential for positive change and transformation.

— Roxie Nafousi

When we contemplate our desires, it's essential to recognise that our minds might already be whispering that certain dreams are unattainable. It's so potent that it prevents us from even picturing it. To manifest it in reality, we first need to visualise it in our minds.

— Roxie Nafousi

When you set out on that yellow-brick-road of life to fulfil your goals, just be the best you can be – and whether that means you finish as champion, first, second, tenth, whatever… if you've done your best? You're winning. The martial arts however can teach you a lot about how to perform – how to dig deep – and how to be better than you think you can be.

— Bruce Buffer

UFC and Pride Fighting Championships Announcer

The level of preparation before fighters' step into the octagon is huge – at minimum fighters will train for 6-8 week, non-stop at camp, just for this 3 or 5, 5 minute-a-round battle. It is complete dedication. It is the loneliest sport in the world when it comes to it…. once you enter the octagon and that gate closes? It is you alone. To achieve what our fighters achieve? You need true warrior spirit, dedication, and discipline – you must be consistent with all your efforts.

— Bruce Buffer

UFC and Pride Fighting Championships Announcer

Some of the most valuable lessons are not from seeing how they've dealt with success, but how they've dealt with failure and come back stronger and more determined to succeed.

— Chatri Sityodtong

Founder and Chairman of ONE Championship, premier Asian MMA organization

I learned a long time ago that life is not a race against other people. Life is a competition with yourself. One of the greatest achievements in life is to outperform yourself and live your greatest life possible. Greatness lives in all of us, but we must all find what it is that ignites our souls.

— Chatri Sityodtong

Founder and Chairman of ONE Championship, premier Asian MMA organization