The Happiness Files by Arthur C. Brooks - A 300-Word Book Review
Insights on Works and Life
Rating: 9.5/10
Pages: 222
Time to Finish: 4 days — 60 pages/day
Where To Purchase: Amazon
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What is it about?
A compilation of insights on happiness by Arthur Brooks, the man who many call “The Happiness Professor”. These insights range from the things to focus on, whether happiness can actually buy you happiness, and the power of faith.
My favourite parts
I’m a big fan of the formatting of this book. It is similar to the way I am formatting the book I am writing. Each chapter could be read on its own and in a random order if you like. This makes it a great coffee table book.
I really liked when he mentioned that money can buy you happiness in 3 ways. Even with that, though, the main thing money can do is remove sources of unhappiness. You still get more happiness from progress towards a goal, companionship, faith, and other factors he names.
Who should read it?
There is massive value in this book for anyone. We can always be happier. That is something Arthur actually talks about in this book. You might not be able to make yourself happy, but you can make yourself happier.
I’m not saying this book will bring you out of depression or solve all your problems, but it will have no doubt a positive effect on you.
Additional thoughts
As you read this book, see what you can immediately apply to your life. It is a very actionable book. At the least, it will change your perspective.