The Happiness Files

Insights on Work and Life by Arthur C. Brooks

By: Arthur C. Brooks

Narrated by: Gary Tiedemann, Arthur C. Brooks

Imagine if your life were a startup. How would you lead it and shape it to be most successful? That's the question behind The Happiness Files, a rich selection of enlightening and instructive essays by Arthur C. Brooks, known worldwide for his inspiring yet practical wisdom and advice in his weekly column for the Atlantic and in his bestselling books, From Strength to Strength and Build the Life You Want (coauthored with Oprah Winfrey).

The simple answer, as Brooks wisely explains, is to manage your life in a way that leads to truly valuable rewards: love, enjoyment, satisfaction, and meaning—in other words, happiness. Building on his popular Harvard Business School course "Leadership and Happiness," Brooks begins each essay with sharp observations and behavioral science research that shed light on how happiness really works, then offers experiential wisdom and practical advice.

Beautifully written, the essays range from ancient philosophy to literature, pop culture, and the contemporary world of work. They explore topics and challenges such as "Procrastinate This, Not That," "Why Success Can Feel So Bitter," and "Five Pillars of a Good Life." Listeners will find the chapters helpfully grouped by theme: "On Managing Yourself," "On Jobs, Money, and Building Your Career," "On Balancing Work, Life, and Relationships," and more.

©2025 Arthur C. Brooks (P)2025 Ascent Audio

Connecting the dots

Good read with long term value principles for life which will come handy for many who invest in this book.

The section on worrying alone was a game-changer

I can’t think of one part of this book that didn’t give me relief and inspiration. It gave/gives me peace.

Realizing success does not buy happiness

Tips on being happy relies on finding happiness in your work not happiness in what you like to do

I wish everyone had this book

I wish everyone could apply the lessons from this book. Misery is what makes the world as dangerous as it is, so a little happiness would go a long way.

Practical, realistic tips

Lots of topics covered with evidence and knowledge. Felt hopeful and easy to apply. Nicely read.