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Work and Success

Many executives chase professional success at the expense of happiness, but it doesn’t have to be that way. When work offers earned success and service to others, it becomes meaningful—and meaning is something no one can live without. That’s why work is one of the four pillars of a happy life. Arthur explains the nuances of success addiction so fellow strivers can find more happiness instead of finding themselves burned out and miserable.

“What matters is not so much the ‘what’ of a job, but more the ‘who’ and the ‘why’: Job satisfaction comes from people, values, and a sense of accomplishment.” 

Arthur Brooks

“Without going too far out on a limb, I believe almost everyone would like two things from their jobs and careers: success and happiness.”

Arthur Brooks

“Joy at work isn’t about doing less. It’s about doing more of what matters. What do you love about your work?”

Arthur Brooks

PANAS (“Positive Affect Negative Affect Schedule”)

This quiz assesses the extent to which you feel positive and negative emotions across an average day and places you into one of four quadrants: Cheerleader, Mad Scientist, Judge, or Poet.

Begin the Quiz
recommended book

From Strength to Strength

Finding Success, Happiness, and Deep Purpose in the Second Half of Life

#1 NYT Bestseller

Change in your life is inevitable, but suffering is not. From Strength to Strength shows you how to accept the gifts of the second half of life with grace, joy, and ever-deepening purpose. Bulk discounts available, for more information click here.

Get the BookLearn More

“Brooks appears to have a clear strategy here: first he horrifies you, then he bucks you up. Every ambitious person should read this.”

Dan Harris
Author and former ABC News anchor

“From Strength to Strength is a wise and inspiring guide to reimagining the rest of your life. If you’re a striver tired of striving, this remarkable book is for you.”

Daniel H. Pink
Author of Drive, When, and A Whole New Mind

“In this book, Arthur C. Brooks helps people find greater happiness as they age and change.”

The Dalai Lama
His Holiness

More on

Work and Success

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Work and Success

Video

HBR Fighting Workaholism: “You are more than a success machine”

Many strivers might think they're addicted to work, but underneath that is a deeper addiction: to success. In this video, HBS Professor and co-author (with Oprah Winfrey) of "Build the Life You Want", Arthur C. Brooks, offers advice for overcoming this self-destructive drive.

Video

Sixth and I Book Launch Event with Ross Anderson

Arthur sat down with Ross Anderson, Deputy Editor of The Atlantic, to discuss his new book, From Strength to Strength.

Video

HBR Can Work Make You Happy? Should It?

True happiness from work may not come from traditional markers like money, power, or reputation. Arthur C. Brooks, an HBS Professor and coauthor (with Oprah Winfrey) of "Build the Life You Want", emphasizes the importance of feeling valued and making a meaningful impact through one’s work.

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