Cover Image: Activating Happiness

Activating Happiness

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Member Reviews

A good book. I didn't love it, but I definitely didn't hate it. There was nothing groundbreaking or new in it, but definitely some good, basic, actionable advice.

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This book was great. Not only did it offer sound advice, but it followed the advice up with tangible, attainable steps, which I think is important for this kind of book. Too many books like this 'infodump' their points in a manner that is hard to break down, thus can be unhelpful and uninspiring for those already lacking in motivation. I also liked the fact it covered a variety of different topics and broke each one down. When feeling low, it can be hard to know where to start, and I think this book succeeds in offering a helping hand.

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As you read this book, imagine the author in front of the room speaking to a small group or comfortably seated across from you having a nonthreatening conversation.
Her approach to helping the client see a brighter future, take action for a more effective present, is based on five principles. The book is written in a sequential path, each principle building upon the previous step. I found the first three principles most interesting and useful.
The process is based on awareness and dealing with emotions as they happen.
She suggests ways to "intentionally create consequences."

Her approach is gentle and encouraging. I did not find it as motivating as other books I have read but it is a very good introduction to goal setting and identifying emotions, triggers and behavioral patterns.

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There were plenty of great suggestions in here that I look forward to trying or adapting to my life. It was written in a very easy to follow manner.
I voluntarily reviewed an advanced reader copy provided by NetGalley.

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I found the book a little lacking in the way it is written. Even though the ideas presented were good, the writing needed some more work.

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This a good self help book that can be used with friends and family

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Thank you netgalley and the publishers for this arc in exchange for my honest review.

I am not a person who reads a lot of self help books but currently I am feeling a bit low due to being ill and this helped me identify little changes I can make to stop me feeling as low. I did read bits and feel like putting my hand up and say yes that’s me!

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Any self-help books on overcoming low mood and other symptoms of depression are always a winner by me, and so I'm always keen to read them. This one was great because it was based on a sound evidence-base for strategies such as ACT and CBT, which are great techniques for thought-challenging and 're-wiring'. However, that is all good as long as the book makes for an interesting read, and unfortunately this one I did not find as enjoyable, and reading it felt more like studying for a homework assignment than something I could allow myself to be absorbed into. That said, this will be a great help for many people, so if you are suffering from low mood or motivation, please do give this a go.

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I think this book is useful for those who struggle with depression or delay their goals in life. It is well structured and I understand the author is specialized in this type of problems, ensuring a scientific background for the book.

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As someone who has read many books on the subject of happiness, I can honestly say this is one of my favorites.

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Lots of tidbits in this book that individually or in small encouraging doses might be helpful to someone in the throes of depression. However, as a whole, this book has a tone and urgency that negates the benefits that it might give.

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