A&B #125

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👋 Hey everyone,

Here are a few popular posts you may have missed:

• 100 Finance books summarized in 1 tweet.

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PS: My friend Joe launched a newsletter called "Wonderful Words" that teaches people how to become better writers. Each issue has a short example of excellent writing and explains what makes it great. You can check it out and subscribe here!

📚 Book Summary:

This week's book is The Happiness Equation by Neil Pasricha.

Neil is a former Harvard MBA and Walmart executive who spent years studying the science behind happiness. In the book, he shares nine scientifically backed secrets to finding more happiness in your life.

Here are 3 key lessons from the book:

📖

1) Go For More Walks

The secret to happiness isn't millions of dollars or a giant house, it's going on more walks (yes, seriously).

Researchers from Penn State found that people who were more physically active had greater general feelings of excitement and enthusiasm.

A study from the American Psychosomatic Society found that 3 30-minute walks improved recovery from clinical depression better than using medication.

Going on a walk will also help you get fresh air, be in nature, get sunlight in your eyes, and many more benefits that will contribute to your overall well-being.

📖

2) Spend 20 Minutes Writing

Another free way to be happier is to spend more time writing.

Specifically, researchers found that writing for 20 minutes about a positive experience dramatically improved happiness. Why?

Because you relive the experience as you're writing it and then relive it every time you read it.

Another group of researchers found that students who wrote down 5 gratitudes a week for 10 weeks were happier and physically healthier than the student who didn't.

Charles Dickens was ahead of his time and knew this well, "Reflect upon your present blessings, of which every man has many, not your past misfortunes, of which all men have some."

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3) The #1 Best Predictor of Happiness

The single best predictor of happiness isn't your health, income, religion, or anything else like that. It's the strength of your relationships with your friends and family.

Humans are social creatures and we need close relationships to be happy. Studies have shown that if the opposite happens–and we're isolated or lonely for long periods of time– depression, health problems, and mental illnesses all increase dramatically.

So if you work remotely (like myself) make sure to devote time to hanging out with friends and family in person.

✅ Actionable Advice:

1) If you want to be happier, go for more walks:

• Go for a walk before work

• Go for a walk during your lunch break

• Go for a walk with your partner after dinner

• Go for a walk with your dog

• Go for a walk while listening to a podcast or music

2) Sit down and write for 20 minutes:

• Write about a positive experience such as your favorite day of 2022.

• Then write down 5 things you're grateful for.

3) Strengthen your relationships:

• Text a friend to make plans to hang out this week.

• Facetime your best friend to see how their day is going.

• Go visit your mom and dad to catch up with them.

📖 Reading Lesson:

A simple tip that will 10x your ability to focus while reading a book.

⭐️ Weekly Quote:

"It's easier now than ever before to get access to a book.

It’s also harder now than ever before to focus on a book."

(share here)

Thank you for your support everyone, I'll see you next Sunday!

Read on,

Alex W.