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

This book gives you the research background as to why various “happiness” activities work. It also explains our happiness “set point” and claims that 40% of our happiness is within our control. I’ve never before seen happiness broken down this way with data to back it up.
As many of you know, I often challenge my clients to express gratitude for what they have and make subtle shifts to positive thinking. It turns out these are only a few of the ways to increase happiness and this book lists twelve activities that, if practiced regularly, can increase happiness. I am glad to have a larger group of activities to give my clients more options when they want to make changes to become happier.
The other interesting finding from Ms. Lyubomirsky’s book was how little time one needs to spend doing these happiness activities to see a benefit. For instance, it turns out you’re better off counting your blessings (listing a few things you’re grateful for in your life) once a week than daily. It’s a big relief for me to have some scientific data to help guide clients in these activities.
So, whether you’re working with a coach or on your own, The How of Happiness provides simple ways that you can become happier. Who doesn’t want that?
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Thanks for reading!
Anne Busse, Professional Organizer