The How of Happiness: A Scientific Approach to Getting the Life You Want

The How of Happiness by Sonja Lyubomirsky was published in 2008, a time when the sociohistorical context was marked by several noteworthy trends and issues. While the book primarily focuses on individual happiness and well-being, it indirectly reflects the societal and cultural backdrop of its time.

In the aftermath of the 2007-2008 Global Financial Crisis, a sense of economic uncertainty and instability pervaded society. Many individuals and families experienced financial hardships, including job losses, home foreclosures, and dwindling retirement savings. The economic downturn had far-reaching implications for people’s overall well-being, leading to heightened stress, anxiety, and a sense of powerlessness. Lyubomirsky’s book thus indirectly addressed a pressing social issue: the impact of economic downturns on people’s mental health and overall life satisfaction. The financial crisis had exposed the fragility of relying solely on external circumstances, such as wealth and material possessions, for one’s well-being. It underscored the vulnerability of equating financial success with happiness, especially given that external factors could quickly erode that success. Moreover, Lyubomirsky’s work offered readers a counter-narrative—one that emphasized the importance of Personal Agency in Happiness, with a focus on internal states and intentional activities.

Furthermore, the book was written during a period when positive psychology was experiencing a surge in popularity and influence within both the academic and popular domains. This context is also essential for understanding the book’s thematic underpinnings and its significance within the broader field of psychology and self-help literature.

Positive psychology emerged in the late 1990s and early 2000s as a distinct field of study in response to the dominant focus of traditional psychology on mental illness, psychopathology, and dysfunction. The psychological literature had long been preoccupied with understanding and alleviating the symptoms of mental disorders. However, there was a growing recognition that this deficit-based approach, while essential, provided an incomplete picture of the human experience. Positive psychology aimed to balance the scales by investigating not just the negative aspects of human psychology but also the strengths, virtues, and factors that promote thriving. As of 2008, a cultural shift had largely taken place, both within academia and society at large, toward a more holistic understanding of human psychology—one that encompassed not only the absence of mental illness but also the presence of a positive mindset and experiences.

Lyubomirsky’s book was a product of this broader cultural shift toward positive psychology. It was written at a time when scholars, researchers, and the general public were increasingly interested in exploring questions related to well-being, happiness, and the factors that contribute to a fulfilling life. The book represented an accessible and practical application of positive psychology principles, translating scientific research into actionable strategies for individuals seeking to enhance their well-being. Lyubomirsky’s work served as a bridge between the academic world of psychological research and the broader public eager to apply these findings to their everyday lives.

While the book primarily focuses on individual-level strategies for happiness, it indirectly addresses societal issues related to mental health and the pursuit of well-being. One of its main themes is Debunking Happiness Myths. Accordingly, it acknowledges that societal norms and values often play a role in shaping individuals’ perceptions of happiness and success. In doing so, it opens up discussions about the societal constructs that influence our understanding of happiness and the pursuit of life satisfaction.