Henrique Bueno had the picture-perfect life: a loving wife, a well-paying career, and goals he was achieving. But even with all those things going for him, he wasn’t happy. It was around this time that he found the Certificate in Wholebeing Positive Psychology (then the Certificate in Positive Psychology)—and everything changed.

Today, Henrique is the CEO of Wholebeing Institute Brasil. We asked him to share his story.

What inspired you to sign up for the certificate course?
I was facing what I call a life and career transition. I was a high achiever in a big and respected company, where I held a well-paying and prestigious position. I was married to the love of my life (still am) and had everything going for me. On the outside, everything was perfect, but I wasn’t happy. That was when I heard of positive psychology and Wholebeing Institute. I decided that it was time to say yes to a happier life.

Was there one lesson within CiPP that particularly spoke to you?
It is very hard to isolate only one lesson. I learned that with practice and small, consistent, deliberate steps, we can really change our brain and create a better life for ourselves and those around us.

Do you apply your positive psychology training more in your personal or professional space?
Both! My life was transformed after the course. The life of my family was transformed. I left my job as a legal director of a global beverage company and became a full-time keynote speaker and positive psychology consultant. I went from practicing law to becoming a happiness specialist; delivering keynotes in Brazil, the United States, Portugal, and Latin America; and founding WBI in Brazil. Last year, I translated the entire content of CiWPP into Portuguese—allowing me to bring this life-transforming certificate program to my fellow Brazilians.

How much interest in positive psychology is there in Brazil?
When I took CiPP in 2013–14, the field was still very new and hardly known in Brazil. Since last year, however, interest in positive psychology has been growing at a fast pace, with many new courses and a big demand for professionals in companies, schools, and public offices across the country. I’ve taken part in short- to long-term culture transformation projects in organizations, schools, and government offices throughout Brazil; taught Positive Education in private and public schools; and taught positive psychology to judges and public prosecutors working in Brazil’s legal system. CiWPP Brasil already has a 2020 cohort confirmed!

What’s next for you?
I’m now studying for a master’s degree in positive psychology. I’ve learned that it’s never too late to say yes to the life you want to live. There is always enough time to reach towards the best version of yourself.

Find out more about the Certificate in Wholebeing Positive Psychology.

 Suzee Connole is the Marketing Assistant for Wholebeing Institute. Part of her role at WBI involves highlighting how alumni, faculty, and guest speakers are taking positive psychology principles and applying them in the communities where they live and work.