Happiness Is a Serious Problem: A Human Nature Repair Manual

The book is divided into three parts: Premises, Major Obstacles to Happiness and How to Deal With Them, Attitudes and Behaviors That Are Essential to Happiness. This is written in a no-nonsense, very readable style. It starts with what happiness is not: among other things, it is not Success, it is not Fun, it is not simply Avoidance of Pain. The author takes each premise, obstacle, and attitude, and devotes a brief chapter to it and how it relates to happiness. Good analysis, a quick read, and it leaves you with something to think about.

If you don't know Dennis Prager, this is a great book of his to start with. It's a fantastic book. That being said, I've really come to love his fireside chats podcast. He is a delightful teacher speaking of truths current generations don't hear anymore. His content is very spiritually/religiously based but with the practicality everyone needs including agnostics. Pleasant, educated, and impactful. Between Dennis Prager and Dr. Jordan Peterson, you have a framework for the pinnacle of morality and character.

I would actually give this books 4.5 stars because while most of it is amazing, there were a few chapters near the end that I found less meaningful. I really need to reread this short book every year to give myself perspective on what is important in life and how to strive to achieve happiness.

It teaches moderation and emphasizes our normal animal instints. It has tons of practical applications. I loved reading this book. I will try to remember the formula U = I - R (Unhappiness = Images - Reality).