Happiness Files

Harvard professor and bestselling author Arthur C. Brooks shares practical, science-based advice on work and life in this handpicked collection from his How to Build a Life column in The Atlantic.

What if you treated your life like a startup? How would you lead it, grow it, and make it truly successful? That idea is at the heart of The Happiness Files, a thoughtful and easy-to-read collection of essays from Brooks, known worldwide for his clear, inspiring guidance. Drawing on his popular Harvard course on leadership and happiness, Brooks explains that real success isn’t about money or status—it’s about love, enjoyment, purpose, and meaning.

Each essay starts with simple insights from behavioral science and everyday observations, followed by practical advice you can use right away. Brooks explores topics like procrastination, why success can sometimes feel empty, and the key foundations of a good life. He weaves together ideas from philosophy, literature, pop culture, and modern work life in a warm, engaging style.

The essays are grouped by themes such as managing yourself, building your career, balancing work and relationships, and more. The Happiness Files offers clear guidance, inspiration, and helpful tools for anyone looking to live and work with more happiness, purpose, and fulfillment.