The Science of Happiness: Seven Lessons for Living Well

The Science of Happiness: Seven Lessons for Living Well by Bruce Hood explores why our minds can make it harder to feel happier. It is presented as a practical book on happiness and wellbeing, grounded in neuroscience and developmental psychology.

Key details

• Author: Bruce Hood
• Centres on seven lessons for living well
• Draws on decades of studies in neuroscience and developmental psychology
• Focuses on connection rather than self-care
• Includes clear, practical takeaways throughout

Synopsis

The book looks at how getting stuck in our own thoughts can lead to obsessing over perceived inadequacies, comparing ourselves with others, and overlooking what is good in our lives. Bruce Hood argues that the route to happiness is found in connection, and sets out seven lessons designed to help break negative thought patterns and refocus on what matters.

The lessons include altering your ego, avoiding isolation, rejecting negative comparisons, becoming more optimistic, controlling your attention, connecting with others, and getting out of your own head. Drawing on research in neuroscience and developmental psychology, the book outlines obstacles to wellbeing and explains how these findings can be used to re-wire thinking.