Happiness By Design
A practical guide to improving happiness through behaviours, not just thoughts.
Summary of 5 Key Points
Key Points
- Understanding happiness from a different perspective
- The role of attention in happiness
- The impact of design on happiness
- Practical steps to design happiness
- The balance between pleasure and purpose
key point 1 of 5
Understanding happiness from a different perspective
The book examines happiness from a unique perspective, asserting that it is not a mere state of mind or emotion, but something that can be designed and structured. It suggests that happiness is more about paying attention to things that make us feel good. Instead of blindly pursuing wealth, success or fame, it urges individuals to identify what truly brings them joy and satisfaction and focus energy and time on these elements…Read&Listen More
key point 2 of 5
The role of attention in happiness
The concept of happiness within ‘Happiness By Design’ highlights the significant role of attention in determining an individual’s state of happiness. It suggests that what we choose to focus our attention on can greatly influence our overall happiness. The underlying principle is that even if we encounter positive events or circumstances, we won’t feel happy unless we actually pay attention to them. This perspective aligns with the saying ‘You are what you think,’ implying that our happiness is shaped by where we direct our thoughts and attention…Read&Listen More
key point 3 of 5
The impact of design on happiness
In terms of the impact of design on happiness, it is fundamental to note that our surroundings significantly influence our mood and well-being. Good design can directly bring about happiness by creating environments that are aesthetically pleasing, functional, and comfortable. For instance, a well-lit, spacious room with beautiful colors can make us feel more relaxed and content, thereby increasing our overall happiness…Read&Listen More
key point 4 of 5
Practical steps to design happiness
The first practical step to designing happiness involves conscious decision-making. It is about deciding to prioritize your happiness and taking full responsibility for it. To do this, you need to understand what makes you happy and what does not. It’s about mindfully observing your own life, your reactions to different situations, people and things, and then making a conscious choice about what to focus on, what to ignore and what to change or eliminate…Read&Listen More
key point 5 of 5
The balance between pleasure and purpose
The equilibrium between pleasure and purpose forms the foundation of happiness. Pleasure is derived from the moment-to-moment joys and sensory inputs that make us feel good. It is characteristically immediate, a by-product of the current circumstances and situation. The book posits that while it is essential, it is transient and cannot form the whole structure of a happy life…Read&Listen More