Robert Holden

Robert Holden is a British psychologist, author and speaker best known for his pioneering work on happiness, wellbeing and authentic success. Across several decades, he has become one of the world’s leading voices on positive psychology and personal development, helping individuals and organisations understand how happiness, purpose and resilience can transform both professional and personal performance. Robert is widely recognised for founding innovative wellbeing programmes and for bringing practical psychology into mainstream culture through bestselling books, television appearances and international speaking engagements. His engaging style combines scientific insight, humour and spiritual wisdom, making him one of the most sought after keynote speakers for businesses, leadership conferences and wellbeing events.

Robert began his career in psychology with a focus on stress management and mental health. In 1986, he became Director of The Happiness Project and Success Intelligence, initiatives designed to explore the science and practice of living a fulfilled life. He later founded the NHS Stress Buster Clinic in 1989, followed by opening The Happiness Clinic in 1994, one of the first organisations dedicated to the study of happiness and emotional wellbeing. In 2000, he founded Success Intelligence Ltd, further developing coaching programmes centred on authentic leadership and personal success. Alongside his consultancy and coaching work, Robert became a prolific author. His books include ‘Success Intelligence: Essential Lessons and Practices from the World’s Leading Coaching Program on Authentic Success’ and ‘Higher Purpose: How to Find More Inspiration, Meaning & Purpose in Your Life’.

Robert’s influence has extended well beyond publishing. He appeared on ‘The Oprah Winfrey Show’, introducing his work to a global audience and cementing his reputation as a leading expert on happiness and human potential. He also hosted the ‘Shift Happens’ radio show, where he interviewed thought leaders and explored themes of transformation, wellbeing and purpose. His TEDx talks, ‘The Tea Meditation’ and ‘Destination Addiction’, further showcased his ability to connect profound ideas with practical everyday experiences, attracting audiences worldwide.

Robert is hired as a keynote speaker because he delivers far more than motivational theory. His presentations combine psychology, mindfulness, leadership insight and humour with practical strategies audiences can immediately apply. Drawing on decades of experience working with organisations, healthcare professionals and business leaders, he speaks with authority on resilience, workplace wellbeing, authentic success and purposeful leadership. His blend of warmth, intelligence and storytelling enables him to engage audiences at every level, making his keynote speeches both inspirational and deeply relevant to modern organisations seeking lasting cultural and personal change.

Here are some of the key milestones that define Robert Holden’s remarkable career:

  • 2022 – Author of ‘Higher Purpose: How to Find More Inspiration, Meaning & Purpose in Your Life’
  • 2018 – TEDx Talk titled ‘The Tea Meditation’
  • 2018 – TEDx Talk titled ‘Destination Addiction’
  • 2015 – Co-Author of ‘Life Loves You: 7 Spiritual Practices to Heal Your Life’
  • 2013 – Author of ‘Loveability: Knowing How to Love and Be Loved’
  • 2011 – Author of ‘Happiness Now! Timeless Wisdom for Feeling Good Fast’ , ‘Shift Happens! How to Live an Inspired Life… Starting Right Now!’ & ‘Authentic Success: Essential Lessons and Practices from the World’s Leading Coaching Program on Success Intelligence’
  • 2008 – Author of ‘Success Intelligence: Essential Lessons and Practices from the World’s Leading Coaching Program on Authentic Success’
  • 1994 – Opened the Happiness Clinic
  • 1989 – Founded the NHS Stress Buster Clinic
  • 1986 – Director of The Happiness Project & Success Intelligence