Self-growth
Business & Career
Success
Communication
Healing
Relationships
Psychology
HappinessYou’ll learn
- How to define your happiness level
- What differs happy people from unhappy
- The role of hedonic adaptation
- Whether genes determine the level of happiness
Table of contents
first KEY POINT
You have to work hard to be happy
Happiness is something we all strive for. We attach different meanings to it. For some, happiness is a successful career; for others, it is a large family with strong relationships. It may even be an opportunity to travel. We talk about happiness in the future tense: “I will be happy when I buy an expensive car or go on a trip around the world or move to live by the sea.” Sometimes we can't even say exactly what makes us happy. However, we agree that contentment is an unattainable dream, something far away that may come to us one fine day. We live in anticipation of pleasure. “The How of Happiness” opens an entirely different understanding of joy and satisfaction. It shows that we can learn to be delighted.
You are the only one who can give yourself lasting and stable happiness.
Here you will find 12 strategies to become happy and learn to choose the ones that are right for you. You will also know that happiness doesn't depend on the conditions in which you live and that you can be happy even without a lot of money and all the material things. What do you think is hidden behind the hedonic adaptation? What is the role of genes in our ability to be happy? Why is overthinking destructive? Here you will find answers to these questions. Years of research have proven that happiness can be a habit. You don't have to look for it or wait for it because it is a consequence of your actions. You are the master of your own fulfilling life. Сhoose your strategy for achieving happiness and implement it regularly.
second KEY POINT
Genes matter but do not decide
Some people are happier than others. So what do lucky ones have that others lack? Let's learn the factors that determine the level of happiness. The first factor is our genes and heredity, which defines 50% of our ability to be happy. This aspect is a permanent base from birth, like weight, height, and hair color. We can't influence it and must accept it as a given.Another 10% are the conditions and circumstances in which we were born. Neither our financial nor social status affects our level of happiness. It doesn't matter if we live in a small apartment or a big house, drive a premium-class car, or one that has changed a lot of owners. Our place of work and social rank are also irrelevant. They say that you can't buy happiness for a reason.Another 40% remains, and this part depends solely on us. It includes our habits, ways of thinking, perceptions of reality, and actions we take every day. It is excellent news because while there are things we can't control, like our genes, there are also things we can manage. With this, we know our area of influence and can work on creating happy habits. And yes, it is essential to realize that you must work on happiness. This 40% is an opportunity and a responsibility. It means that even if you don't feel satisfied now, you can change it. By regularly practicing happy habits, you can make them automatic. Although it takes time, the result is worth it.If we choose not to act, we leave our happiness potential to chance and luck.
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first KEY POINT
Money and all material things will not bring lasting happiness
second KEY POINT
Too much thinking is harmful
third KEY POINT
We don't have to discover happiness; we have to create it
fourth KEY POINT
How to choose the best strategy
fifth KEY POINT
What is the secret to long-term happiness?
sixth KEY POINT
Conclusion
Related summaries
Frequently asked questions
What is The How of Happiness: A New Approach to Getting the Life You Want about?
The How of Happiness explores the science behind happiness and provides practical strategies for enhancing well-being. Authored by Sonja Lyubomirsky, this book synthesizes research and actionable advice that aims to help individuals cultivate lasting joy in their lives.
What are the key takeaways from The How of Happiness: A New Approach to Getting the Life You Want?
Key takeaways from The How of Happiness include understanding that happiness is not merely a byproduct of life circumstances but something we can actively cultivate. The book emphasizes engaging in meaningful activities, maintaining relationships, and practicing gratitude as integral components to achieving sustained happiness.
Is The How of Happiness: A New Approach to Getting the Life You Want worth reading?
Yes, The How of Happiness is worth reading if you're interested in actionable insights into improving your happiness and life satisfaction. Sonja Lyubomirsky's blend of scientific research with relatable examples makes it a valuable resource for anyone seeking personal growth.
How many pages is The How of Happiness: A New Approach to Getting the Life You Want and when was it published?
The How of Happiness has approximately 400 pages and was published in 2007. This comprehensive guide delves into the factors that influence happiness and offers a wealth of practical advice.
How can The How of Happiness: A New Approach to Getting the Life You Want help me improve my life?
The How of Happiness provides tools and methods that can help you enhance your life by reworking your habits and thoughts towards more positive practices. With scientifically-backed techniques, you'll learn how to foster both short-term joys and long-term fulfillment.