Creating Happiness: 15 Simple Ways to Feel Really Good About Yourself, Your Relationships, and Your Life
Kathleen Chabus states in the introduction, happiness is an inside job. However many of us chase it like an object just over the horizon. We see it, barely, and think we might someday “get there.” The author shares 15 chapters of reflection partnered with practical application exercises, designed to help us understand that happiness is something we create through loving ourselves, loving others and loving our lives. While Chabus revisits her relationships with her parents, significant others, and alcohol, this doesn’t read like a memoir. Instead, a balanced mix of personal examples, research, and actionable items provide a book worth digging into.
Set up in 3 distinct sections, each with 5 chapters, the book reads easily. Almost too easily. Written in a conversational tone, the chapters can fly, feeling more like a chat with a big sister best friend type. Thankfully, the author provides not just the conversation, but the opportunity to slow down and reflect on the takeaways for each chapter through action steps and building blocks. I highly recommend putting in the work, to achieve the most benefit the book can offer.
Section One
offers 5 chapters focused on encouraging the reader to “love yourself.” We know we should, we know what it should look like, and yet, we fall back into the trap of self doubt and self contempt so easily. Kathleen promotes a positive mindset, a personal responsibility for that mindset, and encourages readers to embrace self care as an ongoing strategy.
Section Two
focuses on loving others, even those whose behavior can’t be controlled. Move on from victimhood and happiness becomes much more attainable. Mommy guilt is set to the curb, as the author reminds readers we are each doing our best.
Section Three
sets the course for future happiness. Master sections one and two, and get ready to pursue your passion. For those who have come far enough in life to accept loving self and others, section three is still hard work. How disappointing it is to find oneself at the twilight of a work history that did not inspire passion, instead was a haphazard career of “golden handcuffs.” It’s not too late to identify a passion, or at least a new direction that feeds the soul, and be the f’ing lion. Go get it. Stop holding back.
This book ranks up there with those written by Jen Sincero, Brene Brown and Mark Manson. I highly recommend it as a means to continue self discovery and living a guilt free, passion filled life.
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