Being Happy
by Tal Ben-Shahar
Ben-Shahar on perfectionism versus 'optimalism': the perfectionist rejects failure, painful emotion and success; the optimalist accepts all three as part of a full life. Drawing on his Harvard course, it is practical and gentle, with exercises, and it names a pattern that drives many high achievers into misery.
Read it if…
you are a perfectionist who is successful and unhappy.
Skip it if…
you are not a perfectionist; the book is specific to that pattern.
Three things you will actually use
- Accept failure as part of the path, not a verdict.
- Allow painful emotions; they pass when permitted.
- Appreciate success rather than dismissing it.
Do this first
Set a 'good enough' standard for one task this week and stop when you reach it.
Our verdict
Gentle and well-aimed.
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