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The Good Life

Lessons from the World's Longest Study on Happiness

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The Good Life

By: Robert Waldinger, Marc Schulz
Narrated by: Robert Waldinger, Marc Schulz
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About this listen

Brought to you by Penguin.

What is the key to a good life?

It is a question that preoccupies us all and one that the longest and most successful study of happiness ever conducted strives to answer. In this groundbreaking audiobook, directors of the Harvard Study of Adult Development, Robert Waldinger and Marc Schulz, bring together over 80 years of research to reveal the true components of a happy, fulfilled life.

The Good Life makes clear that what truly makes a rich and happy life is not synonymous with financial success and achievement, but is rather the result of our relationships. This remarkable work brings together scientific precision, traditional wisdom, incredible real-life stories and actionable insights to prove once and for all that our own wellbeing and ability to flourish is absolutely within our control.

PLEASE NOTE: When you purchase this title, the accompanying PDF will be available in your Audible Library along with the audio.

©2023 Robert Waldinger and Marc Schulz (P)2023 Penguin Audio Personal Development Personal Success Psychology Psychology & Mental Health Self-Esteem Happiness Inspiring Health Thought-Provoking Mental Health

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Critic reviews

"An outstanding book. It combines the longest and richest study of human lives anywhere with two remarkable authors of extraordinary breadth." (Sir Richard Layard, Professor of Economics, LSE and author of Can We Be Happier?)

"This is the book we’ve been waiting for. With grace, humor, and scientific rigor, The Good Life challenges our most stubborn assumptions, and proves that the kind of thriving, happy life we all hope for may have been hiding in plain sight all along. It couldn’t have come at a better time." (Guy Raz)

"In the time of 'social distancing' and a 'loneliness epidemic' understanding the importance of what makes a good life is paramount now more than ever. Both informative and practical, this book is a must read." (Julianne Holt-Lunstad, Fellow of the Society of Experimental Social Psychology)
All stars
Most relevant  
This is a thoroughly enjoyable and inspiring audio book. One cannot read it without applying the wisdom it contains to some degree, great or small.

A fascinating and practically useful review of the science of happiness

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I really enjoyed listening to this book. It combines research findings, including participants stories with practical implications - and overall have an uplifting view of life.

Interesting and inspiring - would recommend

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Fantastic book! Kept the interest. Main message is that for a good life, good relationships are essential and it’s never too late. Such a vital message. Should be taught in schools. Must read book. Highly recommend.

Absolutely vital message

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This has been a joy to listen! What a beautifully written book with so many valuable tips on what really matters in life. So interesting to learn about the Harvard study, about the participants and their paths.
Thank you for sharing the findings of the study. I think everyone should read/ listen to this book.

Insightful and important lessons for everyone

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Lots of stories and real experiences, valuable advice on how to live a fulfilling life and what makes you happy, regardless at what point in your life you currently reside. The things your most want from life is not always what you actually need

An excellent book with food for thoughts

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Easy to follow and insightful book explaining benefits of relationships through life stages based on large whole life studies.

Essential information on life

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Essential reading for everyone.

I gave this speech at my anniversary after reading this book:
‘To our families – put simply in the words of someone far cleverer than me: “we live knowing the enduring love of our families.’
 
To everyone in this room - some of you who have travelled around the globe to be with us today. When trying to decide who to invite tonight, Sarah and I stumbled across a TED talk which helped. It followed the lives of families over 75 years to understand what makes people happy. This Harvard study found good relationships keep us happier and healthier. So, we simply asked ourselves who are the people who make us happy when we are around them?
 
Everyone in this room makes us happy when we spend time with you, and that’s why you are all here, and we feel truly privileged you have joined us tonight.’

Wow. What a book. What a study

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It's been a long time since I've read a book with only 1 message. Positive connections make you happier. Build your social fitness. Never too late!

One clear message

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Really enjoyed listening to this book on the insights from a longitudinal study of two groups of men and their respective generations into what makes a 'good life' - It made me reflect on the relationships in my life at its various stages and where I'm at now and for me it's time to build more friendships!!

Loved the authors narrating their book. It kept me listening as their voices worked well together.

Excellent

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Such an amazing listen, really wonderful insite into happiness and a good life... great work guys!

AMAZING

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