About Jean "John" Crissien
My Purpose
I started writing letters on happiness because I was exposed to some hard truths: Our society is sadder and more hopeless than ever. Our lives often lack purpose and meaning. Three out of five kids express feelings of anxiety or depression. My ultimate goal is to make a positive contribution toward fixing this growing problem.
I never thought I'd find myself so focused on an idea as flowery as "happiness." I'm a political scientist by training. You might have noticed that good feels aren't our bread and butter. On top of that, the self-help space always seemed divided between two factions: those who trivialize happiness and those who expect you to be a philosopher king to find it.
Today, after years of writing, I have a new truth to report: Each one of us has the potential to be happy. In fact, we're hardwired for it. Happy is the destination to which all roads lead back. (Unless you're looking for Happy, TX. That's off I-27.)
Browse my Charting Happiness letters to get started. Then, turn a fresh start into a new beginning.
My Approach
How My Work Will Benefit You
Through countless hours of reading and writing, I've learned that explaining things to people does nothing for them. Simply put, the best version of yourself can't be found in a book or podcast.
Real, lasting change leans on actionable steps, helpful tools, and examples you can follow. In this sport, daily is as important as the practice itself.
I look for wisdom from all corners of society, both today and historically. Academics. Philosophers. Clinical psychologists. Neuroscientists. Habit experts. Athletes. Daredevils. The living and the dead. I learn and borrow from all of them.
Seneca, Viktor Frankl, and Mike Tyson will be quoted in the same article. You'll find serious paragraphs that abruptly end with an (often vain) attempt at humor. My hope is that you'll be, in every sense, uplifted.
Areas of Focus
What You'll Find Here
Happiness Science
The actual research on what makes people happy — not the platitudes, not the hustle. The peer-reviewed stuff.
Behavioral Psychology
How habits form, how decisions get made, and how to use that knowledge to live more intentionally.
Purpose & Meaning
Viktor Frankl was right. Understanding why you're here changes how you move through the world.
Mindful Living
From alcohol to screen time to social media — practical guides for navigating the traps of modern life.
Social Connection
The research is clear: relationships are the single best predictor of health, happiness, and longevity.
Secular Spirituality
Meaning without dogma. How to cultivate awe, gratitude, and transcendence in an evidence-based life.
Dive in when you're ready.
Most of all, thanks for whatever attention you put into my work. I know it's a valuable resource — and I don't take it for granted.