pandacat42's review against another edition
4.0
Very interesting how our brain kind of sabotages us but also tries to optimize survival in dysfunctional ways. This book is about trying to overcome habitual loops that can work against you.
vinterthunder's review against another edition
5.0
As a reader with a degree in psychology and neuroscience, the author did a fantastic job in explaining the science in lay people’s terms. Some stuffs are a bit oversimplified but I think it’s a good writing technique for a book like this to not overwhelm readers.
Everything is clear and easy to understand. The writing exercises are somewhat simplistic. Mostly to make you become more aware. Most exercises do not cognitively challenge your thinking or anything. They are asking you to look at your experiences and creating an action plan. This is not the book’s con. I put it here so you know what to expect.
All in all, it’s a great book. Easy to understand with explicit actionable steps.
Everything is clear and easy to understand. The writing exercises are somewhat simplistic. Mostly to make you become more aware. Most exercises do not cognitively challenge your thinking or anything. They are asking you to look at your experiences and creating an action plan. This is not the book’s con. I put it here so you know what to expect.
All in all, it’s a great book. Easy to understand with explicit actionable steps.
nerdykat's review against another edition
funny
informative
inspiring
lighthearted
reflective
medium-paced
3.75
kellyreadingbooks's review against another edition
I'll tell you what, I'm in my DNF era and I'm so happy for it lol. DNF 30%/2 hrs. This is super simplistic "explanations" of hormones/emotions based on what our ancestors felt and what we have come to react to through evolution. While I'm sure bits and pieces of this is true, it was coming across as pseudo-science. Looked more into this author and it says she is founder of "Inner Mammal Institute, which helps people find their power over their mammalian brain chemicals".
Hmm, I'm good.
She's done a lot of research on mammals and is now trying to spin it for self-help and I just didn't find this very interesting or helpful to learn of animal's natural instincts and to correlate it to modern human life. I'd rather just read a book on the nature of mammals if that's what I was seeking. And stick to books from psychiatrists on humans :)
Hmm, I'm good.
She's done a lot of research on mammals and is now trying to spin it for self-help and I just didn't find this very interesting or helpful to learn of animal's natural instincts and to correlate it to modern human life. I'd rather just read a book on the nature of mammals if that's what I was seeking. And stick to books from psychiatrists on humans :)
readingistravel's review against another edition
5.0
This was a nice and interesting read. I found a lot of surprising things in it, that I already knew but didn't know the science behind it. If you love to learn about the brain and how hormones work, and want an easy read, I would recommend this book.
saa's review against another edition
informative
reflective
medium-paced
5.0
"Habits of a Happy Brain" by Loretta Graziano is an enlightening exploration of how our brain's chemistry influences our happiness. The book adeptly delves into the tools that can help shape a happier brain, drawing from the understanding of chemicals like dopamine, serotonin, oxytocin, and endorphins. Graziano's insightful approach highlights actionable strategies that readers can adopt to cultivate positivity and enhance their overall well-being. The book serves as a valuable guide for those seeking to better understand the science behind happiness and implement practical techniques to lead a more joyful life.
Upon introspection, I've discerned that the following insights from "Habits of a Happy Brain" have resonated deeply with me, pinpointing the areas I should actively focus on incorporating into my life:
- 45-Day Rule: This rule holds the potential to bring about tangible change as I commit to establishing new habits that contribute positively to my overall well-being.
- Satisfice Tool: Embracing the concept of embracing "good enough" outcomes has struck a chord with me, offering a way to effectively manage stress and cultivate a kinder relationship with myself.
- Breaking the "I will be happy when" Pattern: This particular mindset shift has deeply resonated, serving as a reminder to treasure each moment rather than postponing happiness to some distant achievement.
Identifying these areas for growth, I'm enthusiastic about weaving these insights and tools into the fabric of my life's journey, in pursuit of amplified happiness and personal development.
Upon introspection, I've discerned that the following insights from "Habits of a Happy Brain" have resonated deeply with me, pinpointing the areas I should actively focus on incorporating into my life:
- 45-Day Rule: This rule holds the potential to bring about tangible change as I commit to establishing new habits that contribute positively to my overall well-being.
- Satisfice Tool: Embracing the concept of embracing "good enough" outcomes has struck a chord with me, offering a way to effectively manage stress and cultivate a kinder relationship with myself.
- Breaking the "I will be happy when" Pattern: This particular mindset shift has deeply resonated, serving as a reminder to treasure each moment rather than postponing happiness to some distant achievement.
Identifying these areas for growth, I'm enthusiastic about weaving these insights and tools into the fabric of my life's journey, in pursuit of amplified happiness and personal development.
canadiyank's review against another edition
5.0
I really enjoy Dr. Breuning's insights. Much of her writing is similar, but I need a lot of repetition as I'm establishing new habits, so I don't mind. I just skip through the parts that echo her other books. This one has lots of exercises throughout to apply directly to your life, and also good insights on spending 45 days building a new habit/pathway. I'm noticing myself noticing more positive things and am slowly building up those new habits and neural pathways.