Thrive: The Third Metric to Redefining Success and Creating a Life of Well-Being, Wisdom, and Wonder

Huffington frequently draws upon Greek myth, using Aristotle, Stoicism, the myth of Theseus & the Minotaur, and more to demonstrate how a truly successful life should be lived. Analyze specific examples where ancient wisdom is applied to modern life in at least two pillars of Third Metric living and discuss their impact on the relevant section’s theme.

Ariadne’s thread is a central metaphor in the wonder section of Thrive. How does the concept of finding one’s thread relate to the pursuit of wisdom and inner fulfillment? Explore the role of self-discovery and introspection in the context of building a life filled with wonder. Use examples from the book to illustrate your points.

Huffington argues that a new definition of success—focused on personal well-being and fulfillment—is ultimately beneficial for employers as well as individuals. How might workplaces implement aspects of the Third Metric in their own policies? Does Huffington offer examples of this shift in corporate culture?

Huffington emphasizes the benefits of giving for the giver as well as the receiver. Does this focus on mutuality diminish or increase the moral value of giving? Provide specific examples from the text to support your analysis.

Huffington’s writing relies heavily on quotations and incorporates numerous pieces of evidence to support her claims. How do these outside voices lend support to Huffington’s original arguments? Provide specific examples from the text to support your claim.

While three of Huffington’s four pillars of success are inwardly focused, the fourth—giving—is directed outward at the wider community. How does this inherently social practice support the more introspective aspects of Huffington’s concept of “thriving”?

Huffington discusses the importance of sleep across several pages of her well-being section, and sleep appears again as a connective thread when discussing the other pillars. What are some of the barriers to adequate sleep discussed in the book? How do social factors like gender, parenthood, and income affect these barriers? Use examples from the text in your response.

In Thrive, Huffington explores wonder as a source of personal transformation. Using examples from the book, discuss how embracing wonder can lead to a deeper sense of fulfillment and connection with the world around us. How can individuals cultivate wonder in their daily lives, and what role does mindfulness play in nurturing a sense of awe and appreciation for life’s mysteries?