Happiness Is Overrated: Simple Lessons on Finding Meaning in Each Moment

"We spend so much time in pursuit of happiness-trying to purchase it, experience it, meditate our way towards it-but happiness is elusive and doesn't last. According to the teachings of the Buddha, this is not a problem! As Cuong Lu writes, "suffering is not a problem to be solved. It is a truth to be recognized." Happiness is Overrated invites us to look deeply at the truths in our lives-not glossing over or denying our suffering-and focus on the meaning and value already within us, and available to us in each moment. Each chapter of this direct and profound book shares a lesson drawn from Buddhist psychology and the Four Noble Truths, which are accessible to all readers and often illustrated with a stories from the author's life growing up in Vietnam, as a monk with Thich Nhat Hanh, and from his life after leaving the monastery. "Apps" at the end of each of the thirty short chapters help readers apply the teachings in their own lives through meditation and mindfulness practices that include paying attention to the breath, considering our minds, connecting with our hearts, interconnectedness with others, and more. Happiness is Overrated helps readers get in touch with their true selves and their true minds, which is the greatest happiness"--