The Science of Happiness: Arthur C Brooks’ Journey
Arthur C Brooks has spent years studying the science of happiness. He is the author of From Strength to Strength, a popular column titled “How to Build a Life” for The Atlantic, and a professor at Harvard Business School and Harvard Kennedy School. After leaving his CEO role in 2019, he returned to academia to explore the science behind happiness. Over the past seven years, he has researched ways to increase happiness while measuring his own progress through self-evaluation tools.
Initially, Brooks was drawn to the study of happiness because he lacked it. “Happiness is naturally hard for me; I had very gloomy parents with lots of problems,” he explains. As a scientist, he dedicated himself to understanding this complex emotion. His research led him to discover that about 75% of our happiness is out of our control, influenced by genetics and circumstances. However, the remaining 25% is shaped by habits, which he believes are the key to long-term happiness.
Brooks emphasizes that while we cannot avoid all unhappiness, we can significantly improve our well-being through intentional habits. He measures his happiness using a self-designed scale that assesses alignment with four pillars: faith, family, friends, and work—specifically, work where one feels they earn success through merit and serve others.
In his 2023 book Build the Life You Want: The Art and Science of Getting Happier, co-authored with Oprah Winfrey, Brooks outlines these principles. He also explores the importance of purpose and meaning in life, particularly in response to the growing crisis of meaning in modern society. He argues that the number one predictor of depression and anxiety is the feeling that life lacks meaning.
A Daily Routine Designed for Happiness
Brooks follows a strict daily routine designed to maximize his happiness, productivity, and creativity. He starts his day at 4:30 am, waking up before dawn to experience the morning light. According to neuroscience, this practice enhances focus, creativity, and productivity throughout the day. He then exercises for an hour, often without headphones, to maintain mental clarity and physical health.
After exercise, he attends mass, a daily contemplative period that includes meditation, journaling, or reading. This time allows him to reflect and connect with his faith. Following mass, he enjoys a coffee with a “bolus” of between 350 and 400mg of caffeine, always waiting a few hours after waking. He also eats a high-protein breakfast, including Greek yogurt, to support muscle protein synthesis.
This routine gives him four hours of maximum creativity and focus, allowing him to complete major projects by midday. He believes that without such discipline, one might only achieve an hour or two of productive work each day.
Balancing Discipline and Relationships
Despite his rigorous schedule, Brooks acknowledges that his habits are not without challenges. He admits to sometimes failing to meet his own standards but insists that these practices have significantly improved his happiness and relationships. He sees his discipline as a gift to those he loves, stating that no one wants to be married to an unhappy person or work for an unhappy leader.
He also emphasizes the importance of balance, noting that he does not follow his protocols every day. At least one day a week, he prioritizes his family over his routines, respecting his wife’s preferences.
Faith, Family, and Meaning
Brooks’ approach to faith is not limited to religious practices but involves transcending the self and engaging with the world beyond personal interests. He encourages activities like meditation, studying philosophy, or volunteering to foster a sense of awe and purpose.
Regarding family, he highlights the benefits of intergenerational living. In 2024, his children suggested that they all live together, including the grandchildren. This arrangement, he believes, strengthens family bonds and improves overall well-being. Research shows that multigenerational households can reduce mortality risk and increase life satisfaction.
Brooks acknowledges that no family is perfect, but he values the ability to overcome differences and maintain love despite conflicts. He admits that he is still a workaholic and not without flaws, but he continues to strive for improvement.
