<p>In this episode of <i>Passion Struck</i>, host <strong>John R. Miles</strong> welcomes one of the world’s leading psychologists, <strong>Dr. Shige Oishi</strong>, to discuss his latest book, <a href="https://amzn.to/4jPxZbz" target="_blank"><i>Life in Three Dimensions: How Curiosity, Exploration, and Experience Make a Fuller, Better Life</i></a><i>.</i> Dr. Oishi introduces the concept of <strong>psychological richness</strong>, a third dimension of well-being that goes beyond traditional notions of happiness and meaning.</p><p>Through their engaging discussion, they explore the psychological science behind what makes life truly fulfilling, how personal exploration enhances our sense of self, and why embracing novel experiences—even difficult ones—can lead to <strong>fewer regrets</strong> and a more enriched life. This episode provides practical insights into how we can intentionally <strong>cultivate curiosity, challenge our perspectives, and lead a life that is both meaningful and psychologically deep.</strong></p><p><strong>Key takeaways:</strong></p><p>1. The Three Dimensions of a Good Life</p><ul><li>Dr. Shige Oishi explains the three fundamental aspects of well-being:</li><li>Happiness (pleasure and satisfaction)</li><li>Meaning (purpose and significance)</li><li>Psychological Richness (novel experiences, exploration, and deep personal growth)</li><li>Unlike happiness or meaning, psychological richness thrives on openness, diversity of experience, and intellectual curiosity.</li></ul><p>2. How Novelty and Exploration Lead to Fulfillment</p><ul><li>Dr. Oishi shares compelling research on how curiosity and new experiences—including studying abroad, engaging with art, or even navigating personal challenges—enhance psychological richness.</li><li>Experiencing diverse perspectives broadens our understanding of the world.</li><li>Venturing outside comfort zones creates long-term growth and resilience.</li><li>People who seek new experiences tend to feel more fulfilled and have fewer regrets.</li></ul><p>3. The Global Village Paradox and Social Media's Impact</p><ul><li>While the modern world is more connected than ever, Dr. Oishi explains why social media fosters echo chambers, giving us the illusion of diversity but often limiting our exposure to truly different viewpoints. He highlights how intentional exposure to diverse cultures, people, and ideas leads to greater psychological richness.</li></ul><p>4. Happiness vs. Meaning vs. Psychological Richness</p><ul><li>Happiness focuses on comfort, stability, and positive emotions.</li><li>Meaning emphasizes purpose, coherence, and contribution to others.</li><li>Psychological richness is about learning, discovery, and embracing life’s twists and turns.</li><li>Dr. Oishi suggests that a fulfilling life should contain all three but warns against excessive focus on happiness alone, as it can lead to stagnation.</li></ul><p>5. Why Regret Comes from Inaction</p><ul><li>Drawing from Tom Gilovich’s research on regret, Dr. Oishi reveals that:</li><li>People regret not taking action (e.g., failing to pursue dreams or opportunities) more than their mistakes.</li><li>A psychologically rich life minimizes regrets by encouraging new experiences and continuous personal growth.</li></ul><p>6. The Role of Negative Emotions in a Rich Life</p><ul><li>Unlike happiness, which avoids pain, psychological richness embraces challenges. Dr. Oishi highlights:</li><li>Learning from hardships enhances perspective and resilience.</li><li>Negative emotions like sadness or discomfort are essential for growth and wisdom.</li><li>New Year's resolutions fail because people avoid discomfort rather than embracing the learning process.</li></ul><p>7. How to Cultivate Psychological Richness</p><ul><li>Practical ways to enrich life include: </li><li>✔️ Exploring new places – even within your own city.</li><li>✔️ Trying new hobbies or activities – reading, music, art, or deep conversations.</li><li>✔️ Embracing discomfort – travel, challenges, and personal reinvention.</li><li>✔️ Adopting a mindset of curiosity – asking questions, learning new skills.</li></ul><p>Dr. Oishi emphasizes that even small changes in daily routines can lead to a psychologically richer life.</p><p>Link to the full show notes:  <a href="https://passionstruck.com/shige-oishi-to-live-a-psychologically-rich-life/" target="_blank">https://passionstruck.com/shige-oishi-to-live-a-psychologically-rich-life/</a></p><p>Sponsors:</p><ul><li>Rosetta Stone: Unlock 25 languages for life at <a href="https://www.rosettastone.com/passionstruck" target="_blank">“ROSETTASTONE.com/passionstruck</a>.”</li><li>Prolon: Reset your health with 15% off at <a href="https://prolonlife.com/passionstruck" target="_blank">“ProlonLife.com/passionstruck</a>.”</li><li>Mint Mobile: Cut your wireless bill to 15 bucks a month at “<a href="https://mintmobile.com/passion" target="_blank">MINT MOBILE dot com slash PASSION.</a>”</li><li>Hims: Start your journe