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The Happiness Challenge

Hello happiness seekers! I’m Klaudia Mitura and I’m on a mission to explore the best happiness habits that science has to offer. Like so many others, the pandemic cut me off from family and work – so I decided to use my training as a Psychologist to discover what science can tell us about the art of happiness. What I found set me on a path to joy – and now I’m sharing my journey with you! Each month I publish three linked episodes where I’ll be speaking to a leading expert, putting their tips to the test and sharing my findings (and feelings). From mindfulness to exercise and random acts of kindness, I’ll be shining a light on the simple happiness habits that can bring more joy to our lives. So join me as I embark on my challenge and together we can become more successful, resilient – and happy! Klaudia Mitura is the Learning and Development Manager at the Science Museum Group in the UK. In September 2025 she is publishing The Alphabet of Happiness - available to pre-order now: https://mybook.to/AlphabetofHappiness
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Episodes

#161 How to Be Kind Without Burning Out

In this final episode of our kindness series on The Happiness Challenge, Klaudia Mitura explores an often-overlooked side of kindness: how giving too much can sometimes leave us feeling depleted. While kindness is a powerful force for happiness and positive change, it’s important to balance caring for others with caring for yourself. Klaudia dives into the science behind “kindness fatigue,” sharing why it happens and how to spot the signs. You’ll learn practical, research-backed strategies for p...

Jun 24, 20259 minSeason 5Ep. 161

#160 Ten Simple Acts of Kindness to Brighten Your Week

This month on The Happiness Challenge, Klaudia is focusing on the theme of kindness and its unique ability to boost happiness for ourselves and those around us. Building on last episode’s inspiring discussion with Bernadette Russell , Klaudia Mitura now takes the lead to share ten simple, science-backed acts of kindness you can easily weave into your daily life. In this solo episode, Klaudia explores the transformative power of kindness—how small, intentional gestures can create a ripple effect ...

Jun 12, 202510 minSeason 5Ep. 160

#159 Redelivered to Hope: The Power of Kindness with Berndatte Russell

This month on The Happiness Challenge, Klaudia Mitura explores the powerful intersection of kindness and happiness—two forces proven to transform lives and communities. In a world where life’s pace feels relentless and headlines can weigh us down, even the smallest acts of kindness can be a much-needed antidote. Joining Klaudia is storyteller and author Bernadette Russell who in her book In Conversations on Kindness describes a year-long challenge to see if kindness could change the world. Toget...

Jun 10, 202525 minSeason 5Ep. 159

#158 Turning Tension into Trust: How to Heal and Grow After Difficult Conversations

In this episode of the Happiness Challenge, Klaudia reflects upon the necessity of viewing difficult conversations not as singular events, but rather as components of an ongoing process that requires subsequent actions to foster meaningful change. Ultimately, Klaudia explores three strategies for strengthening our relationships after having the tough talk. These are: establishing clear next steps, prioritising quality time together, and focusing on the positive attributes of our partners, all of...

May 20, 202513 minSeason 5Ep. 158

#157 Building Bridges: Guide to Navigating Tough Conversations

Difficult conversations are a fundamental aspect of fostering authentic relationships, as they possess the potential to enhance trust and emotional connection. In this episode of the Happiness Challenge, Klaudia summarises the key research findings on difficult conversations and provides five practical tips to help you navigate tough conversations with clarity and constructive intentions. This episode is PART 2 of May's theme: Difficult Conversations.

May 08, 202513 minSeason 5Ep. 157

#156 Braving the Hard Talks: The Power of Difficult Conversations to Build Stronger Bonds

In this episode of the Happiness Challenge, Klaudia speaks to an executive coach Chris Wong to dive into one of the most challenging yet transformative aspects of any relationship: difficult conversations. Whether it's with a colleague, partner, friend, or family member, these tough talks are often avoided out of fear, but they hold the key to deeper connection and lasting happiness. They explore how embracing uncomfortable discussions can strengthen trust, resolve underlying issues, and create ...

May 06, 202524 minSeason 5Ep. 156

#155 Three Effective Strategies for Overcoming Social Comparison to Stay Content in Life

This podcast episode at the Happiness Challenge delves into the detrimental effects of social comparison on our happiness, a theme that has been recurrent throughout our discussions on positivity. Klaudia shares her reflections and provides practical strategies for managing the pervasive nature of social comparison, which often leads to feelings of inadequacy, envy, and dissatisfaction with one’s own life. Throughout the episode, Klaudia talks about four common comparison traps that individuals ...

Apr 22, 202512 minSeason 5Ep. 155

#154 Cultivating Happiness with PERMA Model

In this podcast episode of the Happiness Challenge, Klaudia explains the PERMA model , a framework developed by Dr. Martin Seligman that delineates five essential components contributing to human flourishing: Positive Emotion, Engagement, Relationships, Meaning, and Accomplishments. Throughout the episode, Klaudia delves into actionable steps that individuals can undertake to integrate the PERMA model into their routines, thereby enhancing their overall well-being....

Apr 10, 202510 minSeason 5Ep. 154

#153 Unlocking Free Happiness: Fostering Positivity with Dr. Vikki Barnes

This podcast episode delves into the intricate dynamics of positivity and its profound implications on our pursuit of happiness. Klaudia speaks with Dr. Vikki Barnes, a distinguished clinical and organizational psychologist, who introduces the concept of "free happiness," emphasizing that true joy is not contingent upon external circumstances, but rather can be cultivated from within. Join in for practical insights on how to embrace authenticity in our emotional experiences, recognising the impo...

Apr 08, 202522 minSeason 5Ep. 153

#152 How to Soften What We Say to Our Partners: Discussing Attachment Styles

In this episode, Klaudia shares her reflections on attachment styles with the key being that ultimately while attachment styles shape our relational behaviours, they do not define us; rather, we possess the capacity for growth and transformation within the realm of our relationships. Klaudia also delves into practical tips on discussing attachment styles with your partner. She encourages open communication with partners, advocating for softened language and the use of "I" statements to facilitat...

Mar 25, 202513 minSeason 5Ep. 152

#151 Cultivating Secure Attachments: A Pathway to Emotional Wellness

This episode dives deeper into the exploration of attachment styles, which significantly influence our relationships and emotional connections. Klaudia delves into t the four primary attachment styles—anxious, avoidant, disorganized, and secure—while emphasizing the research that suggests the potential for us to cultivate a more secure attachment, thereby enhancing the quality and happiness of our relationships. She provides actionable insights and habits associated with each attachment style, e...

Mar 13, 202511 minSeason 5Ep. 151

#150 Why We Love the Way We Do: a Deep Dive into Attachment Styles with Dr. Kathrine Bejanyan

This podcast episode dives deeper into the profound impact of attachment styles on interpersonal relationships, an essential topic for understanding the dynamics of human connection. Klaudia engages in a thoughtful dialogue with Dr. Kathrine Bejanyan, a distinguished dating and relationship therapist, who provides an overview of the four primary attachment styles: secure, anxious, avoidant, and disorganized. Together, they examine the origins of these attachment styles and explore how these form...

Mar 11, 202527 minSeason 5Ep. 150

#149 Unlock Self-Care: 6 Unusual Well-Being Habits to Try in 2025!

This episode of the Happiness Challenge introduces six unusual well-being habits designed to boost happiness in 2025. Klaudia reflects on the recent Happiness Reset at Work campaign and invites listeners to explore self-care rituals beyond the typical practices like gratitude and mindfulness. Each suggested habit is inspired by previous podcast guests and aims to encourage curiosity, invigorate the mind, and promote overall well-being. Join the journey to greater fulfillment and discover how sma...

Feb 18, 20259 minSeason 5Ep. 149

#148 The Happiness Reset at Work: Your Guide to a Fulfilling Career (Wrap-up)

The final episode of the Happiness Reset at Work Campaign emphasizes the critical connection between happiness and productivity in the workplace. Klaudia highlights five key drivers of happiness: autonomy, fairness, purpose, belonging, and mastery. Each driver plays a significant role in enhancing job satisfaction and engagement, which in turn leads to higher productivity and innovation. The episode provides actionable insights and expert advice for listeners to implement in their careers, encou...

Feb 04, 202512 minSeason 5Ep. 148

#147 The Happiness Reset at Work: Mastery: Showcase Your Strengths

This episode is part of the Happiness Reset at Work campaign, where Klaudia introduces you to 5 drivers that contribute to building more satisfaction in our careers so that you can reconnect and re-energise with your work in 2025. The 5th and final driver of happiness at work is Mastery. Mastering your strengths at work is essential for achieving greater happiness and satisfaction in your career. Klaudia speaks with Aoife O'Brien, who shares her journey from corporate dissatisfaction to creating...

Jan 30, 202513 minSeason 5Ep. 147

#146 The Happiness Reset at Work: Mastery: Learn in the Flow of Work

This episode is part of the Happiness Reset at Work campaign, where Klaudia introduces you to 5 drivers that contribute to building more satisfaction in our careers so that you can reconnect and re-energise with your work in 2025. The 5th and final driver of happiness at work is Mastery. This episode focuses on practical strategies to cultivate mastery at work by embracing a growth mindset. Klaudia discusses the importance of viewing challenges and setbacks as opportunities for learning and impr...

Jan 29, 20258 minSeason 5Ep. 146

#145 The Happiness Reset at Work: Mastery: Grow and Apply your Potential

This episode is part of the Happiness Reset at Work campaign, where Klaudia introduces you to 5 drivers that contribute to building more satisfaction in our careers so that you can reconnect and re-energise with your work in 2025. The 5th and final driver of happiness at work is Mastery. Mastery in the workplace is about engaging in tasks that align with our strengths while continuously seeking opportunities for learning and growth. Klaudia explores the importance of utilizing our unique talents...

Jan 28, 20257 minSeason 5Ep. 145

#144 The Happiness Reset at Work: Belonging: Foster Connection at Work with Kate Jones

This episode is part of the Happiness Reset at Work campaign, where Klaudia introduces you to 5 drivers that contribute to building more satisfaction in our careers so that you can reconnect and re-energise with your work in 2025. The 4th driver of happiness at work is Belonging. Creating a sense of belonging at work is crucial for enhancing happiness and satisfaction among employees. In this episode, Klaudia speaks with Kate Jones, founder of the coaching and leadership development practice Neo...

Jan 23, 20259 minSeason 5Ep. 144

#143 The Happiness Reset at Work: Belonging: Remove Barriers to Connection at Work

This episode is part of the Happiness Reset at Work campaign, where Klaudia introduces you to 5 drivers that contribute to building more satisfaction in our careers so that you can reconnect and re-energise with your work in 2025. The 4th driver of happiness at work is Belonging. This episode emphasizes the significance of belonging in the workplace and introduces listeners to three primary barriers—pace, proximity, and patterns—that hinder the formation of meaningful connections among colleague...

Jan 22, 20255 minSeason 5Ep. 143

#142 The Happiness Reset at Work: Belonging: Build Meaningful Relationships at Work

This episode is part of the Happiness Reset at Work campaign, where Klaudia introduces you to 5 drivers that contribute to building more satisfaction in our careers so that you can reconnect and re-energise with your work in 2025. The 4th driver of happiness at work is Belonging. The episode emphasizes the importance of forming genuine connections and friendships at work, highlighting that employees with good friends are more productive and contribute to a safer, more enjoyable work environment....

Jan 21, 20256 minSeason 5Ep. 142

#141 The Happiness Reset at Work: Purpose: Create a Vision Board with Christine Brown-Quinn

This episode is part of the Happiness Reset at Work campaign, where Klaudia introduces you to 5 drivers that contribute to building more satisfaction in our careers so that you can reconnect and re-energise with your work in 2025. The 3rd driver of happiness at work is: Purpose. Finding purpose at work is a vital driver of happiness and satisfaction in our careers, as discussed by Klaudia and her guest, Christine Brown- Quinn. Christine, with her extensive background in international finance and...

Jan 16, 202510 minSeason 5Ep. 141

#140 The Happiness Reset at Work: Purpose: Set Goals and Celebrate Wins

This episode is part of the Happiness Reset at Work campaign, where Klaudia introduces you to 5 drivers that contribute to building more satisfaction in our careers so that you can reconnect and re-energise with your work in 2025. The 3rd driver of happiness at work is: Purpose. This episode focuses on practical hacks for increasing our sense of purpose at work. Klaudia shares three actionable ideas to implement at work to find more meaning and satisfaction.

Jan 15, 20254 minSeason 5Ep. 140

#139 The Happiness Reset at Work: Purpose: Concentrate on the bigger picture

This episode is part of the Happiness Reset at Work campaign, where Klaudia introduces you to 5 drivers that contribute to building more satisfaction in our careers so that you can reconnect and re-energise with your work in 2025. The 3rd driver of happiness at work is: Purpose. Klaudia expertly articulates the concept of purpose, framing it as the underlying reason for our daily efforts and a key driver of engagement. Listeners are encouraged to reflect on their own roles, considering questions...

Jan 14, 20257 minSeason 5Ep. 139

#138 The Happiness Reset at Work: Fairness: Be the Rebel at Work with Michelle Hartley

This episode is part of the Happiness Reset at Work campaign, where Klaudia introduces you to 5 drivers that contribute to building more satisfaction in our careers so that you can reconnect and re-energise with your work in 2025. The 2nd driver of happiness at work is: Fairness. Klaudia welcomes Michelle Hartley, an expert in transforming HR teams, to share practical tips on creating a fair workplace. They discuss the importance of addressing feelings of unfairness, whether through official cha...

Jan 09, 202512 minSeason 5Ep. 138

#137 The Happiness Reset at Work: Fairness: 3 Powerful Boundary Setting Tips

This episode is part of the Happiness Reset at Work campaign, where Klaudia introduces you to 5 drivers that contribute to building more satisfaction in our careers so that you can reconnect and re-energise with your work in 2025. The 2nd driver of happiness at work is: Fairness. This podcast episode focuses on the importance of setting boundaries at work to enhance our sense of fairness and satisfaction in our careers. Tune in for valuable insights that can help you navigate workplace dynamics ...

Jan 08, 20256 minSeason 5Ep. 137

#136 The Happiness Reset at Work: Fairness: Navigate Justice at Work

This episode is part of the Happiness Reset at Work campaign, where Klaudia introduces you to 5 drivers that contribute to building more satisfaction in our careers so that you can reconnect and re-energise with your work in 2025. The 2nd driver of happiness at work is: Fairness. Klaudia explores the concept of fairness, breaking it down into three key types: distributive justice, procedural justice, and interactional justice. Each type plays a vital role in how we perceive our work environment ...

Jan 07, 20258 minSeason 5Ep. 136

#135 The Happiness Reset at Work: Autonomy: Master Influence with Sarah Langslow

This episode is part of the Happiness Reset at Work campaign, where Klaudia introduces you to 5 drivers that contribute to building more satisfaction in our careers so that you can reconnect and re-energise with your work in 2025. The 1st driver of happiness at work is: Autonomy. Building influence at work is essential for gaining autonomy and making meaningful contributions in our careers. Klaudia speaks with executive coach Sarah Langslow, who emphasizes the importance of relationships grounde...

Jan 03, 202513 minSeason 5Ep. 135

#134 The Happiness Reset at Work: Autonomy: 3 Hacks to Build Trust With Others

This episode is part of the Happiness Reset at Work campaign, where Klaudia introduces you to 5 drivers that contribute to building more satisfaction in our careers so that you can reconnect and re-energise with your work in 2025. The 1st driver of happiness at work is: Autonomy. Tune in to hear Klaudia share practical hacks to create more autonomy at work, emphasizing the importance of trust in fostering engagement and freedom in your career.

Jan 02, 20254 minSeason 5Ep. 134

#133 The Happiness Reset at Work: Autonomy: Focus on What Matters to You

This episode is part of the Happiness Reset at Work campaign, where Klaudia introduces you to 5 drivers that contribute to building more satisfaction in our careers so that you can reconnect and re-energise with your work in 2025. The 1st driver of happiness at work is: Autonomy. Described as the freedom to control our tasks and decisions, autonomy plays a crucial role in our job satisfaction and overall happiness. Tune in to learn how building more autonomy at work can help you create a more fu...

Jan 01, 20259 minSeason 5Ep. 133

#132 The Power of Laughter: My Reflections on Daily Joy Practices

This episode explores the transformative practice of Laughter Yoga and its incredible benefits for well-being. Klaudia shares her personal reflections on daily laughter exercises, emphasizing that even forced laughter can yield positive outcomes for our mental and physical health. Through engaging activities like high-fiving oneself in the mirror and laughing, she highlights how these unconventional practices can surprise our brains and break us out of our routines. Ultimately, Klaudia invites e...

Dec 19, 20247 minSeason 5Ep. 132
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