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Best 10 Positive Thinking Courses: Expert-Reviewed Picks for 2024
Home > Course Reviews > Best Positive Thinking Courses
Positive thinking can make a big difference in life—it helps people feel happier, healthier, and more motivated. Many people want to improve their positive mindset, and taking a course can be a great way to learn how. With so many options out there, though, finding the right course can be a challenge. That’s why we’ve put together this list of the best positive thinking courses, chosen for their scientific approach and expert-led content. Each course was reviewed by Dr. Rick Hansen, a PhD neuropsychologist, to make sure you’re getting the best options available.
Best Positive Thinking Courses in 2024: Handpicked by Research
Price: $299
Instructor: Dr. Rick Hanson, Ph.D.
Accreditation: 7 CE Credits available for therapists (additional $50)
Duration: 6 weeks with lifetime access to course materials
Course Description
The Science of Changing Your Mind is a six-week online course led by Dr. Rick Hanson, a renowned psychologist and bestselling author. This program explores the power of positive neuroplasticity, helping participants shift limiting beliefs, reshape self-perception, and foster healthier thought patterns. Through seven hours of video content, live Q&A sessions, guided activities, and downloadable materials, participants gain practical tools to manage stress, improve relationships, and cultivate motivation. With a focus on self-compassion and resilience, this course is designed to support meaningful, long-lasting personal change.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Evidence-based approach with a focus on neuroplasticity.
- Includes practical exercises and real-world applications.
- Accessible with lifetime access to all materials.
Cons
- High cost; however, includes additional resources.
- The self-paced format may require high self-motivation.
About the Instructor
Dr. Rick Hanson is a celebrated psychologist known for his work on positive neuroplasticity and well-being. As a New York Times bestselling author, his teachings draw on decades of research and real-world application, making complex psychological concepts accessible and actionable. Dr. Hanson’s focus on resilience, motivation, and self-compassion makes him an ideal guide for those seeking transformation through practical, science-based techniques.
Why It’s On The List
We chose The Science of Changing Your Mind for its structured and effective approach to personal growth through positive neuroplasticity. We love how Dr. Hanson combines decades of research with practical exercises, making it easy to apply his teachings in everyday life. This course offers participants a compassionate and supportive environment to explore new ways of thinking, making it a valuable resource for lasting personal change.
Course Structure/Content
- 7 Hours of Video Teachings: Short, pre-recorded segments for flexibility.
- Experiential Activities: Guided exercises to identify and overcome personal blocks.
- Live Q&A Sessions: Interactive opportunities with Dr. Hanson.
- Weekly Email Guidance: Ongoing support and tips throughout the program.
- Downloadable Workbook: Additional resources for reflection and practice.
What You’ll Learn
- Techniques for reframing limiting beliefs and boosting motivation.
- Ways to cultivate self-compassion and resilience.
- Tools to improve relationship dynamics and reduce conflict.
- Strategies for reducing anxiety and increasing self-confidence.
- Approaches to viewing yourself and others with greater clarity and kindness.
Who This Course Is Best For
This course is ideal for individuals looking to break free from negative thinking patterns and foster a more positive, resilient mindset. It’s particularly beneficial for those facing self-doubt, interpersonal challenges, or stress, and is suitable for both beginners and those with some background in personal development. With its practical, science-backed approach, The Science of Changing Your Mind provides a powerful toolkit for anyone looking to reshape their mental landscape for the better.
Price: $499 (discounts available)
Instructor: Dr. Rick Hanson, Ph.D.
Accreditation: 10 CE Credits for Mental Health Professionals; 25 Core Competency Credits + 9 Resource Development Credits for ICF Coaches
Duration: 6 weeks
Course Description
Positive Neuroplasticity Training (PNT) is a transformative 6-week course by Dr. Rick Hanson, focusing on rewiring the brain for greater well-being. The course delves into practical applications of positive neuroplasticity, helping participants overcome the brain’s negativity bias by using the H.E.A.L. method to embed positive experiences deeply. Through over 13 hours of video content, live Q&A sessions, and hands-on exercises, PNT offers strategies to cultivate joy, resilience, and inner peace. With its science-backed approach, PNT is designed for anyone seeking to enhance emotional well-being, including mental health professionals and coaches seeking CE credits.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Evidence-based approach with tools for long-lasting positive changes.
- Includes lifetime access and ongoing support via a community.
- Accredited options available for professionals.
Cons
- Initial cost is high, though discounts and payment plans are available.
- Not suitable for individuals with severe mental health conditions without professional support.
About the Instructor
Dr. Rick Hanson is a psychologist and New York Times bestselling author, renowned for his work in positive neuroplasticity and well-being. With over 30 years of experience, Dr. Hanson translates complex scientific insights into accessible, practical tools. His focus on using neuroplasticity for lasting positive change has made him a sought-after expert, blending psychological science with mindfulness to guide individuals toward a fulfilling life.
Why It’s On The List
We included Positive Neuroplasticity Training for its rigorous, research-backed approach to creating mental resilience. We appreciate Dr. Hanson’s expertise in positive neuroplasticity and his focus on practical, actionable strategies, making this course a powerful tool for both personal and professional growth. It’s a comprehensive program that goes beyond theory, empowering participants to build inner strengths that foster lasting well-being.
Course Structure/Content
- Week 1: Introduction to Positive Neuroplasticity and H.E.A.L. method
- Week 2: Cultivating Beneficial Experiences
- Week 3: Linking Positive and Negative Material
- Week 4: Developing Strengths for Safety
- Week 5: Building Satisfaction-Enhancing Strengths
- Week 6: Growing Strengths for Deeper Connections
What You’ll Learn
- Techniques to harness neuroplasticity for lasting inner peace.
- Practical methods for overcoming negativity bias.
- The H.E.A.L. process to integrate positive experiences into daily life.
- Skills for building resilience and managing stress.
- Tools to develop joy, confidence, and stronger social connections.
Who This Course Is Best For
This course is ideal for individuals interested in enhancing their emotional resilience and well-being. It’s especially valuable for mental health professionals, coaches, educators, and healthcare providers, offering CE credits for those seeking professional growth. With its accessible format, PNT is suitable for beginners and experienced practitioners alike, providing a science-backed framework for lasting change.
Price: $299/year or $29.99/month
Instructor: Simon’s Master Trainers, guided by Simon Sinek
Accreditation: N/A
Duration: 50 classes, self paced (new classes added every month)
Course Description
The Optimism Library offers a unique, science-based approach to mastering essential human skills. Designed for both personal and professional growth, the course covers communication, productivity, decision-making, and leadership insights. Participants can explore over 50 on-demand classes, updated monthly, including exclusive teachings from Simon Sinek himself. The library encourages you to unlock your potential by improving decision-making skills and leading with empathy.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Extensive library with new classes added regularly.
- Flexible, self-paced learning format.
- Exclusive insights from Simon Sinek and expert trainers.
- Covers personal and professional growth topics.
Cons
- Limited live interaction with instructors.
- Minimal direct teaching from Simon Sinek.
About the Instructor
Simon Sinek, renowned for his work on leadership and optimism, has trained a team of Master Trainers to carry forward his teachings within this library. Known for his “Start With Why” philosophy, Simon has a background in organizational psychology and has helped countless people and organizations find purpose and inspire others. His team brings his principles to life through engaging, practical lessons on leadership, resilience, and human connection.
Why It’s On The List
We’re excited to include The Optimism Library because of the way it delivers lasting personal and professional value. We appreciate the balance of science-backed content with relatable, everyday applications. Each lesson reflects Simon’s commitment to bettering individuals and workplaces, and we love how accessible it is for anyone wanting to grow, learn, and lead more effectively.
Course Structure/Content
- Communication skills series (e.g., Active Listening, Emotional Professionalism)
- Leadership and team culture strategies (e.g., Conflict Resolution, Building Trust)
- Personal growth classes (e.g., Stress Reduction, Resilience)
- Professional growth lessons (e.g., Decision-Making, Productivity)
- Monthly updates with new lessons and insights
What You’ll Learn
- Boost resilience for challenging situations
- Lead with empathy and purpose
- Improve productivity and work-life balance
- Communicate more effectively in personal and professional settings
Who This Course Is Best For
This course is perfect for leaders, team managers, and individuals looking to refine their human skills, such as resilience and communication. It’s especially useful for professionals navigating complex team dynamics, those wanting to enhance workplace culture, and anyone seeking a science-backed approach to positive thinking and self-growth. The library’s flexibility makes it suitable for busy professionals and lifelong learners alike.
Price: Included with Coursera Plus; financial aid available
Instructor: Dr. Martin E.P. Seligman, Ph.D.
Accreditation: Part of Foundations of Positive Psychology Specialization
Duration: Approx. 16 hours, self-paced
Course Description
This course, guided by Dr. Martin Seligman, explores the scientific foundations of Positive Psychology, focusing on human flourishing and well-being. Through engaging lectures, participants will learn about character strengths, gratitude, and positive education. The course delves into evidence-based practices designed to enhance both mental and physical well-being, using groundbreaking research that reframes traditional ideas of happiness. Aimed at beginners, it’s a comprehensive introduction to the field, allowing learners to apply positive psychology techniques in their lives to boost resilience and satisfaction.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Taught by a renowned leader in Positive Psychology.
- Practical, research-based skills for enhancing well-being.
- Part of a broader specialization for continued learning.
- Flexible, self-paced structure.
Cons
- Limited interaction as it is fully pre-recorded.
- Specific to Positive Psychology without general self-help topics.
About the Instructor
Dr. Martin E.P. Seligman is celebrated as the “father of Positive Psychology” and is a global authority in the field of human flourishing. With a background in psychology and over 20 years of research, Dr. Seligman has developed frameworks that redefine happiness, optimism, and well-being. His scientific contributions, particularly at the University of Pennsylvania, have made him a leading voice in understanding resilience and personal growth, making him exceptionally suited to teach this course.
Why It’s On The List
We included this course because it offers unmatched insights from Dr. Seligman himself, a true pioneer in Positive Psychology. We’re thrilled by how well it combines scientific rigor with practical applications, letting learners explore well-being through the lens of research. It’s clear that Dr. Seligman’s expertise and passion shape each lesson, making this course a unique, invaluable resource for anyone.
Course Structure/Content
- Module 1: Positive Psychology Introduction – 10 videos, 5 readings, 2 assignments
- Module 2: The Skills of Well-Being Can be Learned, Taught and Transformative – 13 videos, 2 readings, 2 assignments
- Module 3: Being Whole: Mind/Body Flourishing Throughout the Life – 10 videos, 7 readings, 2 assignments
- Module 4: Future Directions in Positive Psychology – 10 videos, 3 readings, 2 assignments
What You’ll Learn
- Understand scientific foundations of Positive Psychology.
- Build well-being skills through evidence-based practices.
- Explore the interconnectedness of mind and body in flourishing.
- Gain insights into future developments in Positive Psychology
Who This Course Is Best For
This course is ideal for individuals interested in personal growth and well-being through a scientific approach. It’s perfect for beginners in Positive Psychology, especially those curious about resilience, gratitude, and character strengths. With content specifically designed to foster well-being, it’s an excellent fit for anyone seeking research-backed strategies to boost happiness and life satisfaction.
Price: $29.95 (updated version)
Instructor: Dr. Ronald D. Siegel, with contributions from Dr. Mallika Marshall
Accreditation: X CE Credits available
Duration: Self-paced
Course Description
This Positive Psychology course from Harvard Medical School offers easy-to-apply tools to build lasting happiness and well-being. Designed with both emotional and physical health in mind, it provides techniques like mindfulness, gratitude, and positive relationship-building to help reduce stress and improve life satisfaction. By exploring the roots of positive psychology, participants can practice mindfulness, savor pleasure, and cultivate gratitude to boost their resilience and inner strength.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Taught by distinguished Harvard faculty with real-world expertise.
- Practical, science-backed strategies for improving well-being.
- Flexible, self-paced, and accessible on multiple devices.
- Emphasis on both emotional and physical health.
Cons
- Course update requires a separate purchase if previously enrolled.
- Limited engagement options beyond pre-recorded materials.
About the Instructor
Dr. Ronald D. Siegel is an Assistant Professor of Psychology at Harvard Medical School with over 35 years of experience. Known for his expertise in mindfulness, Dr. Siegel is a board member and faculty at the Institute for Meditation and Psychotherapy. His extensive work on mindfulness in therapy makes him well-suited to guide learners in achieving lasting happiness. Dr. Mallika Marshall, a Harvard-trained physician and Emmy-winning health journalist, brings practical health insights, adding valuable perspectives on the physical benefits of positive psychology.
Why It’s On The List
We liked this course for its approachable, research-driven guidance on happiness from Harvard’s leading experts. We appreciate how well it combines emotional and physical well-being tools, offering learners not only theory but easy ways to apply these practices in daily life.
Course Structure/Content
- Getting Started: Overview of course, definitions of satisfaction and happiness
- Why We Crave Contentment: Introduction to positive psychology and happiness basics
- Virtues, Inner Strengths, and Mindfulness: Learning mindfulness and identifying strengths
- Strategies for Finding Happiness: Practices like gratitude, savoring, and building positive relationships
- Key Takeaways: Summary, applying lessons, and life’s purpose
What You’ll Learn
- Practicing mindfulness to boost well-being
- Cultivating gratitude and positive relationships
- Building self-compassion and inner strength
- Reducing stress and supporting physical health
- Understanding the roots of long-term happiness
Who This Course Is Best For
This course is ideal for individuals interested in learning scientifically supported techniques to improve both emotional and physical health. It’s especially beneficial for those new to positive psychology, mindfulness, and stress reduction, and for people seeking long-term happiness rather than temporary emotional highs.
Price: $49.99
Instructor: Tara Brach
Accreditation: N/A
Duration: 7 parts with 2 video sessions of 10–35 minutes each
Course Description
This course, led by Tara Brach, guides participants in uncovering the deeper sense of well-being that lies beyond fleeting emotions. By exploring universal blocks to happiness, students will gain practical tools to cultivate inner peace and resilience. The course covers mindfulness practices, compassion techniques, and positive neuroplasticity methods, all designed to help participants shift from a mindset of striving to one of acceptance and wholeness. Each of the seven parts includes videos, guided meditations, and journaling prompts, encouraging a personal journey toward greater joy, ease, and satisfaction in everyday life.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Features practical exercises, including guided meditations and journaling.
- Flexible, self-paced format for convenient access.
- Supports charitable causes, with 10% of revenue donated.
Cons
- Limited interaction, as it is video-based and self-guided.
- No formal accreditation or certification offered.
About the Instructor
Tara Brach, a leading voice in mindfulness and compassion, blends Western psychology with Eastern spiritual practices in her teachings. A clinical psychologist and meditation teacher, Tara is known for her insights on emotional healing and self-compassion. She is the founder of the Radical Compassion Institute and has dedicated her career to helping individuals find freedom from self-criticism and foster self-acceptance.
Why It’s On The List
We loved this course because Tara’s gentle yet profound teaching style creates a space where we can approach our struggles with kindness and awareness. We appreciate how each session not only helps build mindfulness but also deepens our understanding of true contentment. This course stands out as a nurturing and transformative resource for anyone looking to find inner peace.
Course Structure/Content
- Part 1: The Blessings of Enough — Understanding contentment
- Part 2: The Trance of Discontent — Exploring habits of attention and negativity bias
- Part 3: RAIN Practice — Recognize, Allow, Investigate, Nurture for inner peace
- Part 4: The Roots of Dissatisfaction — Addressing feelings of “not enough”
- Part 5: Mindfulness and Compassion — Developing positive neuroplasticity
What You’ll Learn
- Recognizing and addressing inner blocks to happiness
- Practicing mindfulness to reduce stress and foster peace
- Developing gratitude and positive relationship-building habits
- Cultivating self-compassion and resilience
- Using positive neuroplasticity to elevate daily contentment
Who This Course Is Best For
This course is ideal for individuals seeking meaningful personal growth, particularly those who want to deepen their self-compassion and mindfulness practice. It’s especially suited for people who may feel caught in cycles of striving and discontent, offering insights and tools to foster inner peace and resilience. This course is perfect for anyone who values a gentle yet powerful approach to happiness and well-being.
Price: 3900$
Instructor:Dr. Tal Ben-Shahar
Accreditation: Certificate in Happiness Studies Program
Duration: 1 year (online, self-paced)
Course Description
The Certificate in Happiness Studies (CiHS) is a year-long, online program developed by Dr. Tal Ben-Shahar, a prominent positive psychology expert. This unique course brings together scientific insights and practical tools, enabling participants to cultivate happiness on individual, interpersonal, organizational, and societal levels. The curriculum includes 40 hours of pre-recorded lectures, weekly live webinars with Dr. Ben-Shahar, and guided exercises through the Life Journal, which offers meditations, journaling prompts, and additional resources. Available in multiple languages, CiHS is perfect for anyone dedicated to learning about and fostering well-being.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Led by a globally recognized positive psychology expert.
- Year-long access to live webinars and weekly video lectures.
- Multilingual program available in 8 languages.
Cons
- Requires a significant time commitment over a full year.
- Relatively high cost, even with discount.
About the Instructor
Dr. Tal Ben-Shahar, a best-selling author and former Harvard professor, is renowned for his work in positive psychology and well-being. His popular courses at Harvard introduced thousands to the science of happiness, and he currently teaches Happiness Studies at Columbia University. His teaching integrates philosophy, psychology, and practical tools, offering a well-rounded approach to fostering happiness. Dr. Ben-Shahar’s dedication to enhancing well-being worldwide makes him an inspiring and knowledgeable guide for this transformative course.
Why It’s On The List
We’ve included CiHS for its comprehensive, research-driven approach to happiness education. This program is more than an academic journey—it’s a personal commitment to living more joyfully and purposefully. We admire Dr. Ben-Shahar’s passion for teaching and his compassionate perspective, which permeates every aspect of this course. The weekly support through live webinars and ongoing engagement makes CiHS a standout choice for those ready to embrace a “happiness revolution.”
Course Structure/Content
- Semester A: Introduction to Happiness Studies – foundational theories and concepts
- Semester B: Facilitating Happiness – evidence-based practical applications
- Weekly Video Sessions: Four 15-minute videos added each week
- Life Journal: Meditations, exercises, and further reading
- Community: Alumni & Business Club with access to global in-person events
What You’ll Learn
- Understanding and applying the science of happiness.
- Strategies to build emotional and relational resilience.
- Techniques for fostering positive environments in communities and workplaces.
- Mindfulness and compassion practices to cultivate well-being.
- Practical tools for professional roles, like Chief Happiness Officer.
Who This Course Is Best For
This course is ideal for individuals who are passionate about happiness studies, especially those in leadership, education, or mental health fields. It’s an excellent choice for anyone looking to enhance personal growth and professional skill sets, as well as those interested in making a broader impact on well-being at an organizational or societal level. With its focus on practical application, CiHS is perfect for those who want to use happiness science to lead, teach, and inspire others.
Price: $299 (Early Bird for 2025); $249 per person for groups of 3 or more
Instructor: James Baraz
Accreditation: N/A
Duration: Self-paced, 5-month course
Course Description
The Awakening Joy course, created by James Baraz, is a journey into the science and practice of true happiness. Centered around ten experiential themes, the course offers video and audio recordings of live classes, providing guided meditations and mindfulness practices to deepen personal awareness and well-being. Participants also gain access to additional tools, such as practice partners and support groups, to enhance their learning and connect with a community.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Focuses on experiential learning and emotional awareness.
- Includes practical tools like guided meditations and community support.
- Proven track record, with over 24,000 participants worldwide.
Cons
- No certification or accreditation.
- Self-paced; some may prefer a more structured approach.
About the Instructor
James Baraz has been a dedicated mindfulness meditation teacher since 1978 and co-founded Spirit Rock Meditation Center. His extensive experience in both mindfulness and happiness studies informs his teaching approach. As the author of Awakening Joy, James has guided thousands globally, emphasizing experiential and practical learning. Known for his compassionate and approachable style, he provides students with both insight and support on their path to greater joy and well-being.
Why It’s On The List
We’re excited to include Awakening Joy for its unique, hands-on approach to happiness that goes beyond simple positivity. James’s deep expertise and commitment to mindful living make this course a transformative experience. We appreciate the emphasis on community and the support tools available, which enhance learning and provide meaningful connections.
Course Structure/Content
- Theme 1: Intention – Setting a clear purpose for personal growth.
- Theme 2: Mindfulness – Cultivating present-moment awareness.
- Theme 3: Gratitude – Recognizing and appreciating life’s blessings.
- Theme 4: Joy in Difficult Times – Finding happiness amidst challenges.
- Theme 5: Integrity – Aligning actions with personal values.
- Theme 6: The Joy of Letting Go – Embracing change and releasing attachments.
- Theme 7: Loving Ourselves – Developing self-compassion and acceptance.
- Theme 8: Connection with Others – Fostering meaningful relationships.
- Theme 9: Compassion – Extending kindness to oneself and others.
- Theme 10: The Joy of Being – Experiencing contentment in the present.
- Support Tools: Guided meditations, journaling prompts, community practice groups
What You’ll Learn
- Practical mindfulness techniques for daily life.
- Building resilience and emotional awareness.
- Cultivating gratitude and positive connections.
- Strategies to foster long-term happiness and joy.
- Creating a balanced and compassionate approach to challenges.
Who This Course Is Best For
This course is ideal for individuals seeking a deeper, experience-based approach to happiness. It’s especially suited for those interested in mindfulness, emotional resilience, and personal transformation. With its focus on practical tools and community support, Awakening Joy is perfect for people looking to build joy from the inside out and connect with like-minded individuals on a similar journey.
Price: Varies by location and instructor
Instructor: Certified CCT™ facilitators worldwide
Accreditation: 16 hours of continuing education credits may be available for health professionals
Duration: 8 weeks (weekly 2-hour classes, daily practice)
Course Description
Developed at Stanford University by Dr. Thupten Jinpa and the Compassion Institute’s founding faculty, Compassion Cultivation Training (CCT) combines science and contemplative practices to foster personal and interpersonal well-being. This 8-week program includes weekly classes with lectures, discussions, and in-class exercises, along with real-world assignments to apply compassionate thinking in daily life. Participants engage in guided meditation practices and structured assignments that help build empathy, reduce stress, and improve emotional resilience.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Evidence-based program designed at Stanford University.
- Includes daily practices and real-world assignments.
- Continuing education credits available for health professionals.
Cons
- Course costs vary by instructor and location.
- Requires a significant time commitment over 8 weeks.
About the Instructor
CCT is taught by certified facilitators trained in the Compassion Institute’s rigorous standards. Dr. Thupten Jinpa, a principal author and founding faculty member, developed the course with insights from psychology, neuroscience, and contemplative traditions. Known for his work on compassion and his role as the primary English translator for the Dalai Lama, Dr. Jinpa is a renowned thought leader in the field, and his teachings lay the foundation for CCT’s impact.
Why It’s On The List
We loved Compassion Cultivation Training for its science-based approach to emotional resilience and well-being. This course stands out for its emphasis on experiential learning and real-world compassion practices, creating lasting habits for kindness and understanding. We appreciate the range of benefits, from stress reduction to strengthened social connections, making it a meaningful choice for personal growth. The option for continuing education credits is also a great addition for health professionals.
Course Structure/Content
- Week 1: Settling and focusing the mind
- Week 2: Loving-kindness for a loved one
- Week 3: Self-compassion
- Week 4: Loving-kindness for oneself
- Week 5: Embracing common humanity and appreciation for others
- Week 6: Compassion for others
- Week 7: Active compassion practice
- Week 8: Integrating compassion into daily life
What You’ll Learn
- Techniques for cultivating self-compassion and empathy.
- Meditation practices to support mental focus and calm.
- Practical exercises to build resilience and reduce stress.
- Ways to strengthen social bonds and improve relationships.
- Strategies for integrating compassion into everyday interactions.
Who This Course Is Best For
Ideal for anyone seeking to develop a more compassionate mindset, this course is especially beneficial for individuals in caregiving or health professions, as well as those experiencing stress or burnout. With its structured approach to emotional resilience, CCT provides valuable skills for both personal development and professional application, making it well-suited for people ready to deepen their understanding of compassion and well-being.
Price: $299 (or 11 payments of $29); 15% discount available for group enrollments
Instructor: Jack Kornfield
Accreditation: N/A
Duration: 10+ hours of on-demand content, lifetime access
Course Description
The Awakened Heart by Jack Kornfield is a deeply transformative journey exploring compassion, joy, and resilience. Through the Four Divine Qualities (Loving Kindness, Compassion, Joy, and Equanimity), this course weaves together Buddhist principles, practical techniques, and psychological insights to guide participants toward lasting inner peace and happiness. With 10+ hours of video teachings, live Q&A sessions, guided meditations, and community access, the program provides a nurturing space to reconnect with one’s innate capacity for love and joy, even amid life’s challenges.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Lifetime access to all course materials.
- Taught by a highly respected meditation teacher.
- Includes live Q&A sessions for direct interaction with Jack Kornfield.
Cons
- High cost; however, payment plans are available.
- May be spiritually oriented, which might not appeal to all.
About the Instructor
Jack Kornfield, a pioneer in mindfulness and meditation, has taught Buddhist principles for over four decades. He co-founded the Insight Meditation Society and Spirit Rock Meditation Center and has written numerous books on mindfulness, compassion, and spiritual well-being. Known for his gentle and accessible teaching style, Jack brings profound wisdom and practical techniques to help students unlock their innate capacity for joy, kindness, and resilience.
Why It’s On The List
The Awakened Heart stands out for its profound focus on inner transformation and its blend of ancient wisdom with practical guidance. We included this course because of Jack Kornfield’s extensive experience and compassionate approach, which create a unique learning environment. The structured exploration of core heart qualities and community-oriented support add depth to the course, making it ideal for those looking to cultivate joy, compassion, and resilience in their lives.
Course Structure/Content
- Section 1: The Qualities of the Awakened Heart (Loving Kindness, Compassion, Joy, Equanimity)
- Section 2: Living From Gratitude, Generosity, and Goodness
- Section 3: Serving the World with Joy
- Guided Meditations: Practices for each core quality
- Live Q&As: Two live sessions with Jack Kornfield
What You’ll Learn
- Techniques for building resilience and compassion in difficult times.
- How to cultivate self-compassion and empathy for others.
- Practical exercises to apply Buddhist principles to modern life.
- Ways to foster equanimity, gratitude, and joy in daily experiences.
- The art of being present and finding peace amidst challenges.
Who This Course Is Best For
This course is ideal for meditation practitioners and individuals seeking a deeper, heart-centered approach to life. It’s particularly suited for those facing challenging circumstances or wanting to make a positive impact on the world. With its accessible format and universal teachings, The Awakened Heart is open to all, regardless of meditation experience.
How We Selected the Best Positive Thinking Courses
- Evidence-Based Approach: We prioritized courses rooted in scientific research, particularly in psychology and neuroscience, to ensure the techniques for fostering positive thinking are credible and effective.
- Extensive Research: Each course was chosen through thorough research, examining the trainers’ qualifications and experience. We reviewed each option to confirm it meets high standards of quality.
- Trusted Sources: Our recommended courses are from reputable instructors and platforms, ensuring you’re getting high-quality, dependable content.
- Content Excellence: We evaluated each course based on its objectives, content quality, and how well it delivers practical strategies to enhance positive thinking.
- Instructor and Platform Credibility: We selected courses led by respected experts or hosted on reliable platforms known for their focus on mental health, psychology, and personal development.
- Cost-Effectiveness: We compared course prices against the depth of content and additional resources to ensure you get great value for your investment.
- Professional Approval: The final selection was reviewed by Rick Hanson, Ph.D., a leading neuropsychologist, confirming the courses meet high professional standards.
Accreditation Options: We noted if courses offered accreditation or focused on personal growth, helping you find the right fit—whether for professional certification or personal enrichment in positive thinking.
Conclusion
Positive thinking courses offer valuable tools to boost happiness, resilience, and overall well-being. By choosing courses with science-backed strategies, trusted instructors, and high-quality content, you’ll be better equipped to cultivate a positive mindset in daily life. Whether you’re aiming for personal growth or professional development, these courses provide a supportive foundation for lasting positive change.
Stephanie Veillon is a creative director and instructional designer with over 15 years of experience supporting clients in the mindfulness, personal growth, well-being, learning, and psychology fields. She leverages technology, design, marketing, and best online practices to tell client stories and enhance student experience.
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