The Happiness Trap by Russell Harris

If I ever give a book recommendation, I try and make sure I have read the book before I give the recommendation. One book that I am currently reading, because I just found out the second edition is different than the 1st, is the Happiness Trap by Russell Harris (the second edition). 

This book is such a great book because it actually teaches skills that can help you in the moment like dropping anchor and grounding in the moment. Just listening to the audio book can reframe your thinking. It has been cool actually listening to the audio book and hearing Russell share his experiences with how people constantly chase happiness instead of living in the moment. I think we all on some level know this concept of “I will be happy when”… I lose weight, when I get that promotion, when I am more stable, when I get that house, when I get in a healthy relationship.. and chasing happiness instead of meeting needs and celebrating/enjoying the now. 

Now don’t get me wrong, having goals for the future I think is a great thing to have! It’s more of.. are you basing your current happiness based on the goals you meet and not let yourself celebrate those goals or enjoy the present? I think for many people you get that promotion.. you graduate… you get the thing you’ve been working towards and then you don’t allow yourself to enjoy it… it’s just on to the next thing. I think that’s what I appreciate the most about this book is that while you’re reading it, he calls you out and has you work on the skills right after you learn about it. It’s a pretty empowering book. I don’t want to spoil it, but I would absolutely recommend it if you’re struggling with anxiety or depression or even just staying in the moment and want to find more moments of happiness in your life.