Founder of GoodThinkInc, Co-Founder of The Institute for Applied Positive Research, CEO of BetterUp & Motivational Speaker
Shawn Achor’s Biography:
Shawn Achor is one of the world’s leading experts on positive psychology and human performance, best known for transforming academic research on happiness into practical strategies for success in business and life. He gained international recognition through his bestselling book ‘The Happiness Advantage’, which challenged conventional thinking by arguing that happiness fuels success rather than the other way around. His engaging style, humour and research-driven insights have made him a sought-after speaker for global organisations looking to improve workplace culture, leadership and resilience. Shawn’s ability to combine scientific evidence with storytelling and comedy is a major reason why organisations hire him as a keynote speaker.
Shawn graduated with a Master of Arts in Christian and Buddhist Ethics from Harvard Divinity School, where he developed a deep interest in human behaviour, ethics and wellbeing. During his career, he focused on applying positive psychology research to organisations and individuals seeking higher levels of performance and fulfilment. He founded GoodThinkInc, a company dedicated to helping businesses and schools improve productivity and happiness through evidence-based strategies. Shawn later co-founded The Institute for Applied Positive Research, further expanding his work in organisational wellbeing and behavioural science. His career also extended into executive coaching and leadership development, including serving as CEO of BetterUp, where he contributed to programmes focused on mental fitness and personal growth.
Throughout his career, Shawn has become a recognised media figure and influential voice in psychology and leadership. Alongside ‘The Happiness Advantage’, he authored several widely discussed books, including ‘Before Happiness’, ‘The Orange Frog’, ‘Ripple’s Effect’, ‘How to Be a Positive Leader: Small Actions, Big Impact’ and ‘Rethinking Stress: The Role of Mindsets in Determining the Stress Response’. His work has been featured extensively across international media due to its relevance to modern workplace challenges such as burnout, stress and employee engagement. Through his research, writing and consulting, Shawn has helped organisations better understand how mindset and positivity can influence productivity, resilience and long-term success.
Why Hire Shawn Achor?
Shawn is hired as a keynote speaker because he delivers far more than academic theory. His presentations combine humour, psychology and practical advice in a way that keeps audiences entertained while providing meaningful takeaways. He is particularly valued by businesses seeking to strengthen leadership, employee wellbeing and team performance during periods of change and uncertainty. Shawn’s background in ethics, behavioural science and organisational research allows him to connect with audiences ranging from corporate executives to educators and healthcare professionals. He also presented one of the most viewed TEDx talks of all time, titled ‘The Happy Secret to Better Work’, attracting 4.5 million views worldwide and cementing his reputation as a compelling communicator. His engaging storytelling, comedic timing and ability to simplify complex research ensure audiences leave inspired, energised and equipped with actionable strategies that can immediately improve both professional performance and personal wellbeing.
Shawn Achor’s Career Highlights:
Here are some of the key milestones that define Shawn Achor’s remarkable career:
- 2014 – Published ‘How to Be a Positive Leader: Small Actions, Big Impact’
- 2014 – CEO of BetterUp
- 2013 – Author of ‘Before Happiness’ & ‘The Orange Frog’
- 2013 – Author of ‘Rethinking Stress: The Role of Mindsets in Determining the Stress Response’
- 2012 – Author of ‘Ripple’s Effect’
- 2010 – Author of ‘The Happiness Advantage’
- 2007 – Founder of GoodThinkInc
Videos
Shawn Achor’s Official Keynote Speaking Videos & Showreel:
Testimonials
“We can’t thank Shawn enough for making this year’s Johnson & Johnson OCMO Leadership Team meeting such a success. His presentation was a highlight of our event. Our meeting objectives focused on audience engagement, leadership skills, structured networking and fun – Shawn helped us achieve all of these and then some. I’ve already witnessed my colleagues engaging in the happiness habits, and I’m practising them myself!” – Johnson & Johnson
“Our expectations for Shawn’s talk at our recent H.R. Conference was quite high, given what I had seen of his TED talk and having read much of The Happiness Advantage = and all those expectations were exceeded! While I knew the content would be powerful and anticipated the delivery would be engaging, I underestimated the positive impact it would have on the audience beyond the conference. The attendees have been quite energized and have begun taking actions to be happier and more grateful in their own lives. Further, while the learning will be applicable at our workplace, I think the attendees felt he impact was transferable to all aspects of their lives (and their families).” – Wendy’s
“An amazing event! It was such fun and so stimulating to have Shawn at Facebook! As we strive to help the world become more open and connected, remaining positive and grateful for meaningful and productive relationships is essential! Shawn’s ideas and research is very insightful to us as we think about our mission. Thank you!” – Facebook
Speaking Topics
Shawn Achor’s Official Keynote Topics:
- Rethinking the Formula for Success – The Power of Positive Education
- The Ripple Effect – How to Make Positive Change Easier
- Positive Genius – The Key to Raising Success, Spreading Happiness & Sustaining Positive Change
- The Happiness Advantage – Linking Positive Brains to Performance
- Resilient Optimism – Restoring a Culture of Confidence
How Much Does Shawn Achor Cost to Hire?
How Much Does it Cost to Hire Shawn Achor?
Shawn Achor’s speaking fees vary depending on the event format, location, duration and level of preparation required. For an accurate quote, please share your event date, location and brief with an official booking agent.