Happiness and Joy During Turbulent Times: Walter Green Of Say It Now On How To Live With Joie De Vivre, Even When It Feels Like The Whole World Is Pulling You Down
An Interview With Jake Frankel
Cultivating meaningful relationships should be a priority in life. These connections serve as pillars of support during both joyous and challenging times. I’m referring to relationships where authenticity and vulnerability are present, not superficial interactions. Such genuine bonds form the foundation of a fulfilling life.
It sometimes feels like it is so hard to avoid feeling down or depressed these days. Between the sad news coming from world headlines, the impact of the ongoing pandemic, and the constant negative messages popping up on social and traditional media, it sometimes feels like the entire world is pulling you down. What do you do to feel happiness and joy during these troubled and turbulent times? In this interview series called “Finding Happiness and Joy During Turbulent Times” we are talking to experts, authors, and mental health professionals who share lessons from their research or experience about “How To Find Happiness and Joy During Troubled & Turbulent Times”.
As a part of this series, I had the pleasure of interviewing Walter Green.
Walter Green, founder of the impactful “Say It Now” movement, is a philanthropist, mentor, and author of This Is the Moment!, a work that emphasizes expressing gratitude and appreciation to loved ones while there is still time. Formerly the CEO of Harrison Conference Services, which he led to become the premier conference center management company in the U.S., Walter has also lectured at top institutions, including the Wharton Graduate School of Business. Now based in San Diego with his wife, Lola, he dedicates his time to mentoring young adults and engaging in multiple non-profit endeavors that reflect his commitment to intentional living and meaningful relationships.
Thank you so much for joining us in this interview series! Before we dive into the main focus of our interview, our readers would love to “get to know you” a bit better. Can you tell us a bit about your childhood backstory? What or who inspired you to pursue your career? We’d love to hear the story.
This movement is seven decades in the making. My journey began with a profound loss — my father’s passing during my teenage years — which instilled in me a deep awareness of life’s unpredictability. Years later, witnessing poignant yet bittersweet memorial services sparked a realization: these beautiful tributes were never heard by the recipients themselves.
This epiphany, at age 70, propelled me on a transformative quest. I embarked on a journey across the United States and beyond, personally meeting 44 individuals to express my heartfelt gratitude for their impact on my life. The profound nature of this experience led to the publication of my first book, “This is the Moment,” further amplifying the message.
The movement’s momentum has steadily grown, culminating in a pivotal decision a few years ago. Recognizing its potential, I committed to revolutionizing how we express gratitude, not just nationally, but globally. This vision gave birth to the “Say It Now” movement, aiming to reshape our approach to gratitude and human connection.
None of us can achieve success without some help along the way. Was there a particular person who you feel gave you the most help or encouragement to be who you are today? Can you share a story about that?
My journey has been shaped by countless hands, dispelling the myth of the self-made individual. This truth crystallized during my transformative encounters with 44 influential people and has only deepened with the evolution of the Say It Now movement.
The movement’s success owes much to an exceptional team. My Chief of Staff, Tucker Stine, has been instrumental in translating vision into action. Our partnership with Legacy Plus in Toronto, spearheaded by Craig Kielburger and Kerri Stewart, has been pivotal in expanding our international reach and success in the education and nonprofit worlds.
These collaborations, along with contributions from other key team members, have been the bedrock of many achievements. Their collective expertise and dedication have not only propelled my own mission but have also amplified our impact, allowing us to touch lives on a global scale.
This network of support underscores a fundamental truth: great accomplishments are never solo endeavors, but rather the culmination of shared efforts and interconnected journeys.
Can you share the funniest or most interesting mistake that occurred to you in the course of your career? What lesson or take away did you learn from that?
A couple of years ago, I had the honor of delivering my first ever TEDx talk in San Diego. I spent hours and hours and days and days prepping and rehearsing for the big event. On that day, I arrived at 9 AM in the morning, but my actual talk was not scheduled until after 4 PM that day. And then it was time to take the stage. I could hear my introduction come over the loudspeaker, and right as I was about to take the stage when my name was introduced, there was a technical glitch, and I was forced to stay behind the curtain until it was fixed. The entire audience sat there in silence after they had just given me the first round of applause. I could sense the nervousness and the tension in the auditorium. I also found out after that my entire family and friends who were seated in the audience thought maybe I had even dropped dead. And then a few moments later, I took the stage and delivered one of the most powerful talks I could possibly give.
There were two simple lessons that came out of that experience as I reflect on the awkward moments of laughter, applause and worry. First, life will always throw you unexpected twists, and turns. You may never be prepared for them, but you can always respond with a confidence, knowing that you can turn every challenge into an opportunity. And the second, always stay committed to what you say you’re going to do, even if it is inconvenient or seemingly impossible.
What are some of the most interesting or exciting projects you are working on now? How do you think that might help people?
First, we wanted to see if we could shift the paradigm of expressing gratitude where we first learn about gratitude itself. So we asked ourselves the question.. Why don’t we start with our youth?
Our ambitious initiative has now reached over 50,000 schools across 79+ countries, fostering awareness among young people about the impact others have had on their lives. We’re not just raising awareness; we’re encouraging them to articulate their appreciation directly.
Simultaneously, I’m penning “The Gratitude Express,” a book designed to resonate with readers aged 9 to 90. I’m optimistic about its potential influence. My social media presence, particularly on Instagram, has become a hub for people sharing how this message has touched their lives.
Looking ahead, we’re expanding our movement to encompass nonprofits and corporations. Our vision is to inspire 10 million expressions of gratitude by the end of 2025.
You are a successful leader. Which three character traits do you think were most instrumental to your success? Can you please share a story or example for each?
I owe a debt of gratitude to a unique perspective I acquired nearly half a century ago, which has profoundly shaped my approach to problem-solving and decision-making.
While many focus on immediate actions, I prioritize envisioning the desired outcome. I ask myself: What are we truly aiming to achieve? How will we recognize success when we attain it? This outcome-oriented thinking has been a cornerstone of my approach.
Closely tied to this is the clarity that emerges from this process, enabling me to act with unwavering intentionality. It’s not just about having a clear vision; it’s about purposefully pursuing it.
Lastly, I’ve cultivated a reputation for steadfast integrity. My word has become my bond, a trait that has consistently served me well throughout my career.
These three attributes — outcome-focused thinking, intentional clarity, and uncompromising integrity — form the pivotal foundation of my professional philosophy.
For the benefit of our readers, can you briefly let us know why you are an authority about the topic of finding joy?
Over the past two decades, numerous researchers have conducted rigorous, studies exploring the profound impact of gratitude. While this scientific approach is invaluable, my understanding stems from a different, yet equally powerful source: real-world experience.
For the better part of 15 years, I’ve dedicated myself not to studying gratitude in a laboratory setting, but to inspiring its expression in everyday life. This hands-on approach has allowed me to witness firsthand the transformative power of its impact on the lives of others, both for those giving and for those receiving gratitude..
My unique perspective lies in this practical application. While academic research provides the theoretical framework explaining why gratitude is effective, my focus has been on demonstrating how it works in action. This experiential knowledge complements the scientific findings, offering a holistic view of gratitude’s potential to change lives and strengthen communities.
Ok, thank you for all of that. Let’s now shift to the main focus of our interview about finding joy. Even before the pandemic hit, the United States was ranked at #19 in the World Happiness Report. Can you share a few reasons why you think the ranking is so low, despite all of the privileges and opportunities that we have in the US?
Many have been misled into believing that the accumulation of possessions is the key to happiness. This materialistic mindset, unfortunately, has shaped countless lives around the pursuit of prosperity as the ultimate goal.
A poignant memory from my travels in Kenya starkly challenges this notion. I witnessed young children playing soccer with a tattered, worn-out ball, yet their enthusiasm and joy surpassed anything I’ve seen in well-equipped Western sports arenas. Their unbridled excitement was a powerful reminder of the true sources of happiness.
This experience reinforced my belief in the transformative power of gratitude. Numerous studies have shown that material possessions often fail to deliver lasting contentment. Instead, cultivating appreciation for life’s simple pleasures and meaningful relationships proves far more rewarding. By shifting our focus to gratitude, we open ourselves to a deeper, more eternal form of happiness that is rich in the human experience.
What are the main myths or misconceptions you’d like to dispel about finding joy and happiness? Can you please share some stories or examples?
One of the biggest misconceptions is the belief that happiness is a constant state to achieve. In reality, joy comes in moments, often fleeting, but meaningful. For example, I’ve seen people postpone expressing gratitude or pursuing a passion until they “have more time” or “feel happier.” But happiness doesn’t wait — it’s something we cultivate through intentional acts.
In a related, but slightly different question, what are the main mistakes you have seen people make when they try to find happiness? Can you please share some stories or examples?
The pursuit of happiness often resembles a mirage — the more we chase it directly, the more elusive it becomes. This paradox lies at the heart of our misguided efforts to find fulfillment and I believe it happens far too often in personal and professional lives.
Instead of fixating on happiness as an end goal, we should redirect our focus to its true sources. Meaningful relationships, acts of contribution, and creating positive impacts in others’ lives through the simple and free practice of gratitude. The only mistake we make there is never using it at all.
When we invest our energy in forging deep connections, offering our unique gifts to the world, or working towards a purpose greater than ourselves, we inadvertently cultivate the very happiness we seek. It’s a beautiful irony: by shifting our attention away from personal happiness and towards enriching the lives of others, we often find ourselves engulfed in the very contentment we are seeking.
Can you please share with our readers your “5 things you need to live with more Joie De Vivre, more joy and happiness in life, particularly during turbulent times?”
Cultivating meaningful relationships should be a priority in life. These connections serve as pillars of support during both joyous and challenging times. I’m referring to relationships where authenticity and vulnerability are present, not superficial interactions. Such genuine bonds form the foundation of a fulfilling life.
Equally crucial is finding a sense of purpose. While not a guaranteed shield against depression, having a meaningful goal can significantly reduce its likelihood and amplify life’s positive possibilities. Couple this with a practice of gratitude, and you have a powerful recipe for contentment.
Consider the everyday miracles we often overlook: the simple act of turning a faucet to access clean, temperature-controlled water. How many of us truly appreciate this marvel? Even more fundamentally, the fact that our complex bodies awaken each morning, granting us another day of life, is nothing short of extraordinary.
I encourage adopting what I call a “personal signature” approach to life. This means viewing every action, no matter how small, as a reflection of our character and integrity. By paying attention to our “signature” in all we do, we cultivate a life of purpose, gratitude, and meaningful connections.
What can concerned friends, colleagues, and life partners do to effectively help support someone they care about who is feeling down or depressed?
In times of adversity, our natural instinct often leads us to retreat into uncomfortable silence. We hesitate, unsure of what to say or do, and this hesitation can inadvertently deepen the isolation felt by those who are suffering. However, the most powerful act of support isn’t found in perfectly crafted words or grand gestures.
The true essence of compassion lies in the simple act of showing up.
Your presence, even in silence, speaks volumes. It’s a tangible reminder to those in pain that they are not alone, that someone cares enough to stand beside them in their darkest hours. While the specifics of your words may fade from memory, the impact of your presence will leave an indelible mark.
Ok, we are nearly done. You are a person of great influence. If you could inspire a movement that would bring the most amount of good for the greatest number of people, what would that be? You never know what your idea can
trigger.
I would encourage all to join the Say It Now movement. I want people to be inspired to reshape how we express gratitude in our daily lives — a world where “thank you” isn’t just polite, but transformative. The Say It Now movement, which encourages people to share heartfelt expressions of gratitude in real-time, embodies this vision.
Imagine the ripple effects of such a practice: deeper connections, stronger communities, and a more compassionate society. Gratitude is a universal language that transcends borders, faiths, and circumstances, and when shared authentically, it has the power to heal, inspire, and unite.
This movement would be embedded in every sphere — schools, workplaces, families, and more.
It’s simple but revolutionary: fostering a world where people don’t wait for the “right moment” to share what’s in their hearts. The Say It Now movement isn’t just about gratitude — it’s about creating a culture of human connection and kindness, one heartfelt word at a time.
We are very blessed that some of the biggest names in Business, VC funding, Sports, and Entertainment read this column. Is there a person in the world, or in the US, whom you would love to have a private breakfast or lunch with, and why? He or she might just see this, especially if we both tag them 😊
Imagine having the opportunity to dine with some of the most influential figures of our time — Oprah Winfrey, Barack Obama, or President Jimmy Carter. Each would offer a unique perspective on leadership, social change, and the human experience. Yet, as I reflect on this roster, one name emerges that truly captivates my imagination: Walter Isaacson.
Isaacson, the master biographer, possesses an ability to transform the lives of extraordinary individuals into compelling narratives that resonate with readers worldwide. His pen has breathed new life into the stories of Leonardo da Vinci, Albert Einstein, Steve Jobs, and many others, revealing the intricate journeys of their lives and minds.
What I find most intriguing about Isaacson is not just the subjects he chooses, but the artistry with which he approaches his craft. How does he sift through the vast expanse of a person’s life to unearth the golden threads that weave together their story? What criteria guide his selection of the most captivating aspects of these remarkable lives?
Moreover, Isaacson’s true genius lies in his ability to inspire readers through his words. He doesn’t merely recount facts; he ignites a spark of admiration and self-reflection in his audience. His biographies serve as mirrors, encouraging readers to examine their own lives through the prism of these extraordinary individuals.
How can our readers further follow your work online?
You can stay connected with the Say It Now movement and our mission to inspire 10 million expressions of gratitude through our website, justsayitnow.org. For daily inspiration and updates, follow us on Instagram (@sayitnowmovement) and other social media platforms where we share content that amplifies gratitude and human connection. And if sharing expressions of gratitude make sure to tag us and use #justsayitnow
Additionally, join us for National Say It Now Day on December 17th to celebrate the power of expressing gratitude.
Thank you for these really excellent insights, and we greatly appreciate the time you spent with this. We wish you continued success and good health!
Happiness and Joy During Turbulent Times: Walter Green Of Say It Now On How To Live With Joie De… was originally published in Authority Magazine on Medium, where people are continuing the conversation by highlighting and responding to this story.