F Happiness and Finding Meaning — With Shawn Leon Nowotnik

Introduction

In this profound and moving episode, Dr. Allen Lycka welcomes Shawn Leon Nowotnik—artist, therapist, author, and filmmaker—whose life changed forever after losing his son to suicide. Now based outside Chicago, Shawn has dedicated himself to mental health advocacy, helping others heal through authenticity and meaning.

The Myth of Chasing Happiness

Shawn’s book F Happiness: The Search for Meaning in a World Gone Mad challenges the toxic pursuit of happiness portrayed in social media. He stresses the difference between transient happiness and a meaningful life, rooted in vulnerability, authenticity, and living by one’s core values.

Understanding Meaningfulness

Shawn and Dr. Lycka explore what it means to live a life of meaning. Meaningfulness provides a resilient foundation in the face of hardship—something deeper than fleeting moments of joy. This kind of “bedrock happiness,” as Dr. Lycka calls it, emerges from service, gratitude, and purpose.

Escaping the Hedonic Treadmill

The duo discusses the dangers of the “hedonic treadmill”—our tendency to quickly return to a happiness baseline after major highs or lows. Material success, vacations, or promotions won’t bring lasting satisfaction if they aren’t aligned with authenticity.

Living Authentically in a Curated World

Shawn asks all his clients the same question: “Are you living an authentic life?” The pressure to live up to societal expectations or curated social media snapshots often leads us away from our true selves. Embracing imperfection, celebrating uniqueness, and asking, “If I had a year left, what would I do?” can redirect us toward purpose.

Overcoming Fear of Judgment

Self-compassion, supportive relationships, and honest introspection are key to overcoming fear of judgment. Shawn emphasizes that accepting one’s own uniqueness is a superpower, not a weakness—and it’s essential for growth and fulfillment.

How Shawn Lives a Fantastic Life

Breaking free from societal molds, Shawn found fulfillment by carving his own path. His advice? Don’t wait for tragedy to reevaluate your life. Start now—live authentically, with intention and courage.

Resources

Visit shawnleonnowotnik.com for more about Shawn’s work, books, and projects.

Dr. Lycka’s resources and weekly Golden Pearls are available at drallenlycka.com.

BIO:

Shawn Léon Nowotnik, MSW, LCSW, is an artist, author, filmmaker, and therapist living outside Chicago. After losing his son to suicide, he was compelled to reevaluate his own narrative — and look at how loss, mental health, and addiction can affect every aspect of a person’s life. He's developed holistic treatment programs and advocates for improved mental health and addiction disorder treatments, as well as researching, writing, and public speaking about addiction, community, mental health, narrative, and social issues. His new book is F*ck Happiness: The Search for Meaning in a World Gone Mad Chasing Happiness. Learn more at shawnleonnowotnik.com

Social Media:

https://www.facebook.com/shawn.nowotnik

https://www.linkedin.com/in/shawn-l%C3%A9on-nowotnik/