Thrive: The Third Metric to Redefining Success and Creating a Life of Well-Being, Wisdom, and Wonder

Elli is Huffington’s mother and plays a significant role in shaping Huffington’s values and outlook on life. Huffington credits Elli explicitly in the dedication, introduction, and acknowledgements as her source of inspiration for Thrive; Elli was the “one who lived a Third Metric life before it had its name” (283). Throughout the book, Elli’s presence represents the influence of family and cultural heritage on one’s approach to well-being, wisdom, and wonder.

Elli is portrayed as a wise and insightful individual who imparts valuable life lessons to her daughter. Her experiences, particularly those rooted in Greek culture and traditions, contribute to Arianna’s exploration of ancient wisdom and the importance of embracing wonder in everyday life. Elli laid the foundation for Huffington’s love of meditation by teaching Huffington as a child how to meditate (detailed on pages 40-42), how to slow the pace of life (detailed on pages 146-47), and how to be present right until her very last day. Huffington vividly recalls Elli’s last day—one filled with good food and good conversation as Elli wished to experience wonder even at the very end of her life. Throughout the book, Elli’s relationship with Huffington is characterized by love, support, and shared wisdom. Her presence serves as a reminder of the significance of family connections and the role they can play in fostering a sense of well-being and wisdom.

Agapi is Huffington’s sister, whom Huffington portrays as another source of inspiration and a voice of wisdom throughout the book. She embodies many of the principles and practices that Huffington discusses in each of the four pillars of “Third Metric” living. Agapi’s presence in the book serves as a real-life example of someone who has embraced a more balanced and fulfilling way of living. In fact, Huffington relies on Agapi for guidance toward a more meaningful life of her own, particularly evident when Agapi nudges Huffington back to meditation when Huffington was traveling for work (41) or encourages introspection through the metaphor of tending one’s inner garden (138).

Agapi is depicted as someone who values well-being and emphasizes the importance of self-care and self-awareness in her actions. Huffington quotes Agapi’s own book Unbinding the Heart, (197), and she recalls experiences that from their childhood as evidence of how individuals can prioritize their own well-being and wisdom in the pursuit of a more meaningful life. As with their mother, Agapi’s relationship with Huffington reflects the importance of family and connection as the foundations of thriving.