The happiness files: A book review

We are now at the beginning of the year 2026.

- 

If we reflect on the wishes we extended to others and those we received in return, the word ‘happy” wll almost certainly appear at the top of the list.There is nothing to be surprised about this, because living a happy life is one of the primary goals of our lives. In reality, however, this often appears as a challenging goal to realise in everyday life. In August 2025, a Harvard professor, Arthur C. Brooks, provided valuable insights into this matter in his book “The Happiness Files: Insights on Work and Life” published by Harvard Business Review Press[1].

In my view, this book not only provides research-backed practical recommendations for various aspects of our lives that affect our happiness, but also helps us re-conceptualise happiness itself. Hence, the key insights of this book might guide us to begin the new year in a meaningful manner.