Clay Routledge

Clay Routledge

Dr. Clay Routledge is Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer at the Archbridge Institute. As a thought leader in existential psychology and human motivation, Clay translates research into practical insights that help people reach their full potential, build meaningful lives, and advance human progress and flourishing. Building on his extensive scholarly research, teaching, and writing, he has written for outlets including The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal, and Harvard Business Review. His work has been covered by major media outlets such as The New York Times, The Washington Post, NBC News, and CNN, and he has appeared on programs such as NBC Today, NBC News Now, Hidden Brain, and NPR Morning Edition. Clay regularly advises organizations on using existential psychology and behavioral science to improve their products, services, and workplace culture. He is co-editor of Profectus, a magazine dedicated to human progress and flourishing, and writes the weekly newsletter, Flourishing Friday. His latest book is Past Forward: How Nostalgia Can Help You Live a More Meaningful Life.

Assorted 2000s-era items including a decorated laptop, Game Boy, CD player, flip phone, iPods, cassette, VHS tape, sewing tools, puzzles, and craft supplies arranged on a colorful background evoke pure nostalgia.
A nostalgia-fueled real-world renaissance is underway, led by young adults striving to counter the cultural pessimism and division that pervades much of online life.
A close-up of a painted human arm and hand reaching out with extended fingers against a light, cracked background.
5mins
Atheists are not immune from supernatural thinking.
A nude figure with outstretched arms stands against a sky with rainbows and flying birds, evoking a sense of belief in the supernatural.
4mins
From superstition to religion, we are surrounded by supernatural thinking. Is that a bad thing?
John Templeton Foundation
A blurred image of a green grassy field bordered by tall trees under a partly cloudy sky evokes a sense of nostalgia.
4mins
Escape a mental rut by using nostalgia.
John Templeton Foundation
Two figures embrace in the foreground as celestial bodies or stars, evoking supernatural thinking, tumble from a dark sky; in the background, a crowd with raised arms watches in awe.
7mins
"Supernatural thinking is actually an important part of being a complete human being."
John Templeton Foundation