Summary of "The Little Book of Lykke" by Meik Wiking. Is a book that explores the concept of lykke, or happiness, and how it can be achieved and sustained. Wiking is the CEO of the Happiness Research Institute in Copenhagen, and in this book, he draws on his research and the latest findings in the field of positive psychology to offer practical and actionable advice for increasing happiness and well-being.
The book is divided into three main sections: "The Foundations of Lykke," "The Habits of Lykke," and "The Pursuit of Lykke."
In the first section
Wiking discusses the importance of social connections, physical activity, and work-life balance for happiness, and he also explores the role that genetics and environment play in shaping our happiness. He argues that while genetics and environment can influence our happiness to some extent, there are also many things that we can do to increase our own happiness and well-being.
In the second section
Wiking delves into the specific habits and practices that can contribute to lykke. He discusses the importance of gratitude, kindness, and forgiveness, and he also explores the role that mindfulness and positive emotions can play in increasing happiness. He also discusses the importance of finding meaning and purpose in life, and he provides practical tips for setting and achieving goals.
In the third section
Wiking looks at how we can pursue lykke in different areas of our lives, including our relationships, work, and leisure time. He discusses the importance of finding a work-life balance, and he also explores the role that hobbies and other leisure activities can play in increasing happiness.
Quotes from "The Little Book of Lykke" by Meik Wiking:
- “Like most things, the more we have of something, the less happiness we derive from it. The first slice of cake: awesome. The fifth slice: not so good.”
- “See experiences as an investment in happy memories and in your personal story and development.”
- “No people can be truly happy if they do not feel that they are choosing the course of their own life,” according to World Happiness Report 2012—and it also finds that having this freedom of choice is one of the six factors that explain why some people are happier than others.”
- Expect and understand that reaching your goal might make you happy - but only for a while. We continuously raise the bar for what we want or feel we need in order to be happy.”
- “When we discover that our happiness does not rest on the foundation of money, we have found a true treasure.”
Synopsis and Key Takeaways from The Little Book of Lykke
One of the key messages of "The Little Book of Lykke" is that happiness,
is not just a matter of luck or circumstance, but something that can be actively cultivated and pursued. Wiking argues that there are many things that we can do to increase our own happiness and well-being, and that by making small changes to our daily habits and routines, we can create a more positive and fulfilling life.
One of the key ways that Wiking suggests we can increase our happiness,
is by fostering strong social connections and building a sense of community. He cites research showing that social connections are a strong predictor of happiness, and he suggests that we can increase our happiness by spending more time with friends and family, joining groups and organizations, and engaging in activities that bring us closer to others.
Another important factor for happiness, according to Wiking, is physical activity.
He cites research showing that regular exercise can increase happiness, reduce stress, and improve overall well-being, and he suggests that we can increase our happiness by making physical activity a regular part of our lives. This can include anything from going for a walk or a run to joining a sports team or taking up a new hobby.
Work-life balance is another important factor for happiness.
Wiking emphasizes the importance of finding a balance between our work and personal lives. He suggests that we can increase our happiness by setting clear boundaries between work and leisure time, and by taking regular breaks and vacations to recharge and relax.
Specific habits and practices that can contribute to happiness:
Gratitude, kindness, and forgiveness. He argues that by focusing on the positive aspects of our lives, showing kindness and compassion to others, and letting go of grudges and negative emotions, we can increase our own happiness and well-being.
Finally, Wiking discusses the importance of finding meaning and purpose in life.
He provides practical tips for setting and achieving goals. He argues that having a sense of purpose and direction can be a powerful source of happiness and fulfillment, and he suggests that we can increase our happiness by identifying our passions and pursuing them with purpose and determination.
"The Little Book of Lykke" is a highly readable and practical guide to increasing happiness and well-being. It is filled with research-backed tips and techniques, as well as personal anecdotes and insights from Wiking's own life and work.
