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

In the final chapter of her book, “The How of Happiness,” Lyubomirsky presents five fundamental principles for achieving and sustaining happiness. She refers to research studies and practical insights to provide readers with Evidence-Based Strategies for Well-Being and a comprehensive understanding of how to lead a happier life.

First, Lyubomirsky emphasizes that happiness primarily stems from experiencing frequent positive emotions, such as joy, contentment, and delight. Research supports the idea that positive emotions are central to happiness, and happy people tend to experience these emotions more often than their less happy counterparts. Barbara Fredrickson’s work on positive emotions is referenced, highlighting how moments of pleasure not only make individuals feel good but also broaden their horizons, enhance their skills, and contribute to upward spirals of well-being.

Second, Lyubomirsky underscores the importance of the timing and variety of happiness activities. She suggests that the effectiveness of these activities can be enhanced through experimentation with when and how often they are practiced. For example, one study found that people experienced greater happiness by counting their blessings every Sunday night rather than three times a week. By varying the way happiness activities are integrated into one’s life, individuals can avoid adaptation and make those activities more meaningful and effective, which also reinforces the theme of