The Search for Fulfillment
Revolutionary New Research that Reveals the Secret to Long-Term Happiness
This groundbreaking book unveils results from the first large-scale research study measuring life fulfillment over a long period of time. For forty years, Dr. Susan Whitbourne tracked a group of baby boomers from college to retirement in order test the assumptions we make about what brings happiness and fulfillment. Interestingly, some of the happiest had not achieved what the outside world would consider real success, while some of the most powerful felt their lives were empty. However, the book also shows that change is possible for anyone, at any age. This fascinating book provides tools for change to show how we can work ourselves out of one pathway and onto one that is more fulfilling.
If you would like to learn more about the book or read some excerpts, click Here.
Site Features
On this site, you'll find a great deal of information that goes beyond the scope of the book to include the ever-growing field of the psychology of adult development and aging. There's also plenty of material from Dr. Whitbourne's classroom teaching to give you a chance to learn about what's new and important in the field of psychology in general.
The "interactive quizzes" feature enables you to take a variety of automated personality quizzes which provide instant feedback and helpful resources. If you'd like to discover your work personality and find more fulfillment in your career, try taking the Vocational Types quiz. You can learn which life pathway you are presently on by taking the Pathways Test. After you complete the Pathways Test, you'll have access to various Action Plans for progress.
How do games affect our cognition? Dr. Whitbourne's "Aging, Bejeweled, and Cognition Study" conducted at the University of Massachusetts-Amherst campus has been receiving extensive media coverage. You can read what media outlets such as MSNBC, and academic researchers are so excited about by clicking here. If you don't live in Massachusetts, you can still participate in related research by taking the brief (and anonymous) "Games and Cognition Survey" online. You'll have an opportunity to learn more about the beneficial effects of games and have fun in the process!
There are several quizzes, articles, and resources for feedback to help you gain greater understanding of the process of finding fulfillment.
Weekly Focus and Blogs
Susan's PsychologyToday blog, "Fulfillment at Any Age," is updated every Tuesday. Drawing from her 35 years of teaching, Susan provides insights into many areas of psychology, focusing specifically on happiness, positive psychology, and successful aging. The "Weekly Focus" feature and its Focal Points provide practical applications of the concepts presented in the latest blog article. The Focal Points are designed to help you make targeted improvements in your daily life on a weekly basis.
In addition to Susan's PsychologyToday blog, you can also read her articles at the Boomer Authority and The Third Age sites.
I hope you enjoy the activities and articles, and find the site not only informative but fun. Wishing you increased fulfillment in every aspect of your life,
~Susan
