48 pages • 1 hour read
Arthur C. BrooksBuild the Life You Want: The Art and Science of Getting Happier
Nonfiction | Book | Adult | Published in 2020A modern alternative to SparkNotes and CliffsNotes, SuperSummary offers high-quality Study Guides with detailed chapter summaries and analysis of major themes, characters, and more.
Before You Read
Super Short Summary
In Build the Life You Want, Arthur C. Brooks and Oprah Winfrey challenge conventional views on happiness, proposing that it is an ongoing journey requiring intentional action. They introduce three macronutrients—enjoyment, satisfaction, and purpose—and discuss the role of unhappiness as a natural, valuable part of life. Emphasizing emotional self-management, they explore how regulating emotions can lead to a happier life. Key pillars of happiness include meaningful relationships, fulfilling work, and spirituality. Through practical strategies and insights, they guide readers in making internal choices to enhance their overall happiness.
Reviews & Readership
Review Roundup
Arthur C. Brooks' Build the Life You Want offers practical advice on improving happiness and satisfaction. Positively received for its actionable steps and motivational tone, some readers feel it lacks depth and novelty in its concepts. While engaging and well-structured, others suggest it reiterates common self-help themes. Overall, a solid guide for personal growth.
Who Should Read Build the Life You Want?
Readers who relish Build the Life You Want by Arthur C. Brooks are often self-improvement enthusiasts seeking actionable life strategies. They might also enjoy Atomic Habits by James Clear or The Power of Habit by Charles Duhigg, which offer similar insights into behavioral change and personal growth.