Paris – 10 Oct 2016
Michael Tomoff, a certified psychologist from Bonn, Germany, specialises in the field of positive psychology. After spending several years at an organisational consultancy on human resources and employee development, Tomoff switched his focus to writing books, giving talks and coaching on positive psychology. He recently sat down with BlaBlaCar to share his thoughts on the connection between carpooling and happiness.
Hi Michael! What do you do as positive psychologist?
The short version: I make the world a slightly better place.
The long version: I look at people’s potential, their unused resources and their strengths, and highlight with clients — and in my books — what makes life worth living. For individuals and bigger groups, I take existing studies and their meaning to create exercises or use existing interventions from positive psychology.
How did you become a member of BlaBlaCar?
By driving a car!
I have been carpooling since 1998 (back then as a student), so at some point I came across BlaBlaCar. Actually, I used your platform for the first time to drive to a positive psychology conference in France. On the return trip, I dropped off three French guys in Belgium and Germany. Today, while not a student anymore, I have collected many wonderful experiences — as a passenger and driver. Now I would like to help others have equally amazing experiences on an affordable budget.
Also, every ride means an opportunity for me to pursue my passion/my job: coaching and positive psychology. A lot of people are interested in these subjects — even if they haven’t heard much about it. Everyone can contribute with their own experiences.
Is there a connection between ridesharing and happiness?
There are so many connections! As human beings, we need other human beings. Whether you’re a baby relying on your parents’ help or you’re a grown-up who needs affection, belonging or acceptance — in every corner of our life, we interact with others. When we sit in a car together, new ideas are happening, questions are asked and the answers may create meaning or nonsense. People laugh together, sometimes cry — all while saving money. Experiences are shared and memories are made. We’re making a positive contribution to the environment and sometimes we even make lifelong friendships, which may have never happened it we took the train instead.
Can you give our members advice for their daily lives?
Of course!
First, a general one: Look at the things that make you happy. Doesn’t matter whether it’s a phone conversation with your best friend or a quick trip with your loved ones. Most important: Schedule those dates more often and plan “your happiness” sustainably!
And one specific advice: Take three minutes every night to write down what you are thankful for and why. Gratefulness is one of the most powerful instruments to feeling happy.
If you want to learn more about Michael Tomoff and positive psychology, visit his site.
Published: October 10, 2016