58 pages 1 hour read

The How of Happiness: A Scientific Approach to Getting the Life You Want

Nonfiction | Book | Adult | Published in 2007

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Summary and Study Guide

Overview

The How of Happiness: A Scientific Approach to Getting the Life You Want is a book written by Sonja Lyubomirsky, an eminent psychology professor and researcher. Published in 2007, this book has played a significant role in the fields of positive psychology and self-help literature. Drawing on her expertise in psychology, Lyubomirsky delves into the science of happiness and provides Evidence-Based Strategies for Well-Being. The book covers various essential themes, including personal agency in happiness, debunking common myths about happiness, and the complex interplay of external circumstances and internal states in determining one’s happiness.

Lyubomirsky’s significant role in the field of happiness research is widely recognized, with her work making valuable contributions to our understanding of well-being and personal fulfillment. The book is systematically structured, with each chapter exploring different aspects of happiness, presenting readers with a well-rounded approach to enhancing their overall well-being.

This study guide refers to the 2008 Penguin Press New York version of the book.

Summary

The theme of Debunking Happiness Myths emerges immediately, with the book’s Foreword emphasizing that external circumstances have less influence on happiness than internal factors and personal choices. Lyubomirsky introduces the concept of the “40 percent solution,” highlighting that 40% of our happiness is within our control, introducing the book’s theme of blurred text
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