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The 7 Secrets of Happiness: An Optimist's Journey
What is happiness? Who gets to be happy? And how? These are the big questions that Gyles Brandreth aims to answer in this little book. The 7 Secrets of Happiness are simple rules, easy to remember, but challenging to achieve. Gyles found them when he set out on a journey looking for happiness and ended up in the psychiatrist's chair.
112 pages, Paperback
First published September 5, 2013
68 people are currently reading
207 people want to read
About the author
Gyles Brandreth
464 books400 followersFull name: Gyles Daubeney Brandreth.
A former Oxford Scholar, President of the Oxford Union and MP for the City of Chester, Gyles Brandreth’s career has ranged from being a Whip and Lord Commissioner of the Treasury in John Major’s government to starring in his own award-winning musical revue in London’s West End. A prolific broadcaster (in programmes ranging from Just a Minute to Have I Got News for You), an acclaimed interviewer (principally for the Sunday Telegraph), a novelist, children’s author and biographer, his best-selling diary, Breaking the Code, was described as ‘By far the best political diary of recent years, far more perceptive and revealing than Alan Clark’s’ (The Times) and ‘Searingly honest, wildly indiscreet, and incredibly funny’ (Daily Mail). He is the author of two acclaimed royal biographies: Philip Elizabeth: Portrait of a Marriage and Charles Camilla: Portrait of a Love Affair. In 2007/2008, John Murray in the UK and Simon & Schuster in the US began publishing The Oscar Wilde Murder Mysteries, his series of Victorian murder mysteries featuring Oscar Wilde as the detective.
As a performer, Gyles Brandreth has been seen most recently in ZIPP! ONE HUNDRED MUSICALS FOR LESS THAN THE PRICE OF ONE at the Duchess Theatre and on tour throughout the UK, and as Malvolio and the Sea Captain in TWELFTH NIGHT THE MUSICAL at the Edinburgh Festival Fringe.
Gyles Brandreth is one of Britain’s busiest after-dinner speakers and award ceremony hosts. He has won awards himself, and been nominated for awards, as a public speaker, novelist, children’s writer, broadcaster (Sony), political diarist (Channel Four), journalist (British Press Awards), theatre producer (Olivier), and businessman (British Tourist Authority Come to Britain Trophy).
He is married to writer and publisher Michèle Brown, with whom he co-curated the exhibition of twentieth century children’s authors at the National Portrait Gallery and founded the award-winning Teddy Bear Museum now based at the Polka Theatre in Wimbledon. He is a trustee of the British Forces Foundation, and a former chairman and now vice-president of the National Playing Fields Association.
Gyles Brandreth’s forebears include George R. Sims (the highest-paid journalist of his day, who wrote the ballad Christmas Day in the Workhouse) and Jeremiah Brandreth (the last man in England to be beheaded for treason). His great-great-grandfather, Benjamin Brandreth, promoted ‘Brandreth’s Pills’ (a medicine that cured everything!) and was a pioneer of modern advertising and a New York state senator. Today, Gyles Brandreth has family living in New York, Maryland, South Carolina and California. He has been London correspondent for “Up to the Minute” on CBS News and his books published in the United States include the New York Times best-seller, The Joy of Lex and, most recently, Philip Elizabeth: Portrait of a Royal Marriage.
A former Oxford Scholar, President of the Oxford Union and MP for the City of Chester, Gyles Brandreth’s career has ranged from being a Whip and Lord Commissioner of the Treasury in John Major’s government to starring in his own award-winning musical revue in London’s West End. A prolific broadcaster (in programmes ranging from Just a Minute to Have I Got News for You), an acclaimed interviewer (principally for the Sunday Telegraph), a novelist, children’s author and biographer, his best-selling diary, Breaking the Code, was described as ‘By far the best political diary of recent years, far more perceptive and revealing than Alan Clark’s’ (The Times) and ‘Searingly honest, wildly indiscreet, and incredibly funny’ (Daily Mail). He is the author of two acclaimed royal biographies: Philip Elizabeth: Portrait of a Marriage and Charles Camilla: Portrait of a Love Affair. In 2007/2008, John Murray in the UK and Simon & Schuster in the US began publishing The Oscar Wilde Murder Mysteries, his series of Victorian murder mysteries featuring Oscar Wilde as the detective.
As a performer, Gyles Brandreth has been seen most recently in ZIPP! ONE HUNDRED MUSICALS FOR LESS THAN THE PRICE OF ONE at the Duchess Theatre and on tour throughout the UK, and as Malvolio and the Sea Captain in TWELFTH NIGHT THE MUSICAL at the Edinburgh Festival Fringe.
Gyles Brandreth is one of Britain’s busiest after-dinner speakers and award ceremony hosts. He has won awards himself, and been nominated for awards, as a public speaker, novelist, children’s writer, broadcaster (Sony), political diarist (Channel Four), journalist (British Press Awards), theatre producer (Olivier), and businessman (British Tourist Authority Come to Britain Trophy).
He is married to writer and publisher Michèle Brown, with whom he co-curated the exhibition of twentieth century children’s authors at the National Portrait Gallery and founded the award-winning Teddy Bear Museum now based at the Polka Theatre in Wimbledon. He is a trustee of the British Forces Foundation, and a former chairman and now vice-president of the National Playing Fields Association.
Gyles Brandreth’s forebears include George R. Sims (the highest-paid journalist of his day, who wrote the ballad Christmas Day in the Workhouse) and Jeremiah Brandreth (the last man in England to be beheaded for treason). His great-great-grandfather, Benjamin Brandreth, promoted ‘Brandreth’s Pills’ (a medicine that cured everything!) and was a pioneer of modern advertising and a New York state senator. Today, Gyles Brandreth has family living in New York, Maryland, South Carolina and California. He has been London correspondent for “Up to the Minute” on CBS News and his books published in the United States include the New York Times best-seller, The Joy of Lex and, most recently, Philip Elizabeth: Portrait of a Royal Marriage.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 56 reviews
June 7, 2025
gyles brandreth don't name drop or talk about the royal family for 5 seconds challenge
difficulty: impossible
difficulty: impossible
April 26, 2014
4 stars is a bit overzealous and generous - not 1 of Gyles Brandreth's theories was a secret. In fact, all 7 are fundamental lessons we are taught between 5-10 years of age (& are not too dissimilar to 10 Commandants.)
I am admittedly, on the fence after reading something like this (66 pages was less than an hour investment.) I appreciate the author's TED-like deliverer and "funnish" ability to take a situation and "WILL IT" or "WILL HIMSELF" to strictly see the positives of within conflictual situations where negativity and failure seem to be the only options. The book fails to mention that in each of the 7 scenarios, unlike in real life where a guy who seemingly has a lot going for him has a few challenges arise. It just so happens too, that he is also writing a book based on scientific observations as he experiences them - which, are better described as more "Overly" Optimistic, less Reluctant. Albeit, with a strong lean towards effecting the outcome and giving his conclusion(s) a positive spin, making the book pleasant - causing more readers to pass on his work, he should be optimistic. He is a GREAT SALESMAN. The salesmanship of his ideas is what was needed and impressive. By my sociological observations, we have become blamers and complainers. Specifically my generation, who have an inherent expectation that if things fall apart, they'll work themselves out and if they don't, "I'll get help." If this author would have delivered the same message and angle but wrote in the open, human and humble spirit of The Last Lecture, this book would have been worth my $2 instead of my 2 cents.
I am not sure if the author has realized, as I immediately did, he is selling a 50 volume library of Encyclopedia Britannica almost 20 years in the Digital Age where Grandmaster Google has all the answers. I prefer the hardbound encyclopedia any day, I am also unconventional and find happiness in occasionally holding a book filled with endless statistics and facts - I also live in the grey area in nearly every corner of my life. The black and white answers offered in this book don't fit well in my color scheme.
Perhaps I am cautiously pessimistic or a realist, here is the most effective way to know before you pick up this or the AT LEAST 100 others which are very similar in style and arrive the daily barrage of FREE Kindles books I receive via email. Consider this quotation - how you feel about it...it's a fair indicator of the very pleasant demeanor of the author:
"Begin when you are sure of yourself, and don’t stop because someone else is unsure of you."
To me, a very grown up way to say that sticks and stones may......you know.
I am admittedly, on the fence after reading something like this (66 pages was less than an hour investment.) I appreciate the author's TED-like deliverer and "funnish" ability to take a situation and "WILL IT" or "WILL HIMSELF" to strictly see the positives of within conflictual situations where negativity and failure seem to be the only options. The book fails to mention that in each of the 7 scenarios, unlike in real life where a guy who seemingly has a lot going for him has a few challenges arise. It just so happens too, that he is also writing a book based on scientific observations as he experiences them - which, are better described as more "Overly" Optimistic, less Reluctant. Albeit, with a strong lean towards effecting the outcome and giving his conclusion(s) a positive spin, making the book pleasant - causing more readers to pass on his work, he should be optimistic. He is a GREAT SALESMAN. The salesmanship of his ideas is what was needed and impressive. By my sociological observations, we have become blamers and complainers. Specifically my generation, who have an inherent expectation that if things fall apart, they'll work themselves out and if they don't, "I'll get help." If this author would have delivered the same message and angle but wrote in the open, human and humble spirit of The Last Lecture, this book would have been worth my $2 instead of my 2 cents.
I am not sure if the author has realized, as I immediately did, he is selling a 50 volume library of Encyclopedia Britannica almost 20 years in the Digital Age where Grandmaster Google has all the answers. I prefer the hardbound encyclopedia any day, I am also unconventional and find happiness in occasionally holding a book filled with endless statistics and facts - I also live in the grey area in nearly every corner of my life. The black and white answers offered in this book don't fit well in my color scheme.
Perhaps I am cautiously pessimistic or a realist, here is the most effective way to know before you pick up this or the AT LEAST 100 others which are very similar in style and arrive the daily barrage of FREE Kindles books I receive via email. Consider this quotation - how you feel about it...it's a fair indicator of the very pleasant demeanor of the author:
"Begin when you are sure of yourself, and don’t stop because someone else is unsure of you."
To me, a very grown up way to say that sticks and stones may......you know.
December 15, 2013
Thomas Baggs, born in 1889, was a Birmingham University alumnus who went on to become a teacher, journalist and war correspondent for the Daily Mail. Later on he pursued a successful career in advertising and publicity for the American automobile industry. When he died in 1973, he bequeathed a substantial sum to the university for an annual lecture on “Happiness.”
The first lecture was delivered in 1976 by Yehudi Menuhin, the virtuoso violinist. Gyles Brandreth became the thirty-seventh person on 17 June 2013 to deliver the Baggs Memorial Lecture at the University of Birmingham. There was an audience of more than a thousand listening to him speak on “Happiness – What it is and how it may be achieved by individuals as well as nations.” Gyles Brandreth spoke for more than an hour, and the response was extraordinary, and not what he was used to. His lecture was termed – fabulous, brilliant, wonderful, transformational, thought-provoking, inspiring, excellent, entertaining, etc.
When he left the hall, people asked him for a copy of the lecture, and the “Secrets.” He had neither to give them. When people tweet and retweet garbled versions, he realized he had to write a book. And the result is The 7 Secrets of Happiness!
In the book, the author takes you through What Makes You Happy?, The History of Happiness, What is Happiness?, The Wellsprings of Happiness, No Vapid Optimism, Finding the Man With the Answers, Who Gets to be Happy and Why, Why Happiness is Important, and finally, The 7 Secrets of Hapiness. According to Gyles Brandreth, to be happy you must – Cultivate a Passion, Be a Leaf on a Tree, Break the Mirror, Don’t Resist Change, Audit Your Happiness, Live in the Moment, and finally, if you want to be happy – Be Happy!
The secrets of happiness are available to all. Remembering them is simple but mastering them is hard. It is a truly inspiring book, one not to be missed.
The first lecture was delivered in 1976 by Yehudi Menuhin, the virtuoso violinist. Gyles Brandreth became the thirty-seventh person on 17 June 2013 to deliver the Baggs Memorial Lecture at the University of Birmingham. There was an audience of more than a thousand listening to him speak on “Happiness – What it is and how it may be achieved by individuals as well as nations.” Gyles Brandreth spoke for more than an hour, and the response was extraordinary, and not what he was used to. His lecture was termed – fabulous, brilliant, wonderful, transformational, thought-provoking, inspiring, excellent, entertaining, etc.
When he left the hall, people asked him for a copy of the lecture, and the “Secrets.” He had neither to give them. When people tweet and retweet garbled versions, he realized he had to write a book. And the result is The 7 Secrets of Happiness!
In the book, the author takes you through What Makes You Happy?, The History of Happiness, What is Happiness?, The Wellsprings of Happiness, No Vapid Optimism, Finding the Man With the Answers, Who Gets to be Happy and Why, Why Happiness is Important, and finally, The 7 Secrets of Hapiness. According to Gyles Brandreth, to be happy you must – Cultivate a Passion, Be a Leaf on a Tree, Break the Mirror, Don’t Resist Change, Audit Your Happiness, Live in the Moment, and finally, if you want to be happy – Be Happy!
The secrets of happiness are available to all. Remembering them is simple but mastering them is hard. It is a truly inspiring book, one not to be missed.
April 17, 2025
The title says it all
A self-help book that is concise and to the point, interesting, not too long and feels like a friend giving you really good advice - worth a second read when you need to remind yourself of what's important 😀
A self-help book that is concise and to the point, interesting, not too long and feels like a friend giving you really good advice - worth a second read when you need to remind yourself of what's important 😀
July 20, 2024
Gyles' approach to educating us on the topic of happiness was essentially simply bragging and name dropping whilst attempting to throw some light hearted comedy to distract you from the bragging and name dropping. I would suggest googling the author or watching some of his TV highlights as this may help gain a perspective from where the book's content was born. Though the book has many lessons (that you probably already knew) and suggestions; I feel the weight of the author's self-love outweighed any valuable learnings. It is a frustrating read but thankfully short enough that it is all over before you know it.
July 24, 2024
This is an interesting book with some ideas worth considering but in general it doesn’t offer anything new for anyone who has considered how to improve their general feeling.
Brandreth name drops on every page, drawing on how others have considered how to be happy in their own situations.
In some ways, the reader’s response will depend on their emotions at the time of reading for the book could be seen as a positive way forward in the process of finding happiness or it could be seen as a rehash of some ideas gleaned from a certain type of greeting card.
Brandreth name drops on every page, drawing on how others have considered how to be happy in their own situations.
In some ways, the reader’s response will depend on their emotions at the time of reading for the book could be seen as a positive way forward in the process of finding happiness or it could be seen as a rehash of some ideas gleaned from a certain type of greeting card.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 1, 2020
Having heard Gyles Brandreth speak on this topic two years ago, I was sure to get his book, got it, then only just started to read it this week. Very impressed, I'm doing all of his 7 Secrets and yes guys, I guess I am happy. Seriously, easy read, full of anecdotes and humour. Great sit down and read on a rainy afternoon book. Thanks Gyles, from another 5 letter named person -Lynda
January 1, 2024
I would recommend googling Gyles Brandreth first to see if he interests you. I didn't and picked this up based on the title alone. I did not learn anything new. I think, being 10 years old, we are beyond the topics covered. A personal low was his proudest moment organising two funerals for the same man; one for his wife and one for his mistress. Absolutely not for me.
July 23, 2024
I listened to this on Audible
Loved the ideas and rhetoric style of writing but rhetorical audio version was read by an American who didn’t know how to pronounce English English, so the experience was marred.
Nothing I didn’t already know but it’s nice to be reminded how to optimise the chance of happiness in your life. Just don’t listen. Read it in print.
Loved the ideas and rhetoric style of writing but rhetorical audio version was read by an American who didn’t know how to pronounce English English, so the experience was marred.
Nothing I didn’t already know but it’s nice to be reminded how to optimise the chance of happiness in your life. Just don’t listen. Read it in print.
June 22, 2018
Gyles Brandreth captured the secrets of happiness in this quick, easy to read book. I liked the simplicity of it, how Brandreth cuts to the chase and provides examples for each point stated - a great guideline for you to develop your own happiness.
March 13, 2020
A quick read, less than an hour! I liked his little anecdotes alongside his suggestions for the 7 secrets of happiness. I would agree with him that they are very important and I am sure I will delve back into this book from time to time.
June 26, 2022
Short and sweet. I bought this because I love Gyles Brandreth and kept hearing him talk about this book and I was curious. It’s more anecdotal than theory based, but a good pick me up. I wouldn’t say there’s anything that not common sense, but could make a nice gift book.
October 28, 2022
An enjoyable little book, drawing on a speech Gyles made on Happiness.
He sits down with the Psychiatrist Anthony Clare and they compile the seven secrets; all of which I accept and will try/continue to put into practice.
He sits down with the Psychiatrist Anthony Clare and they compile the seven secrets; all of which I accept and will try/continue to put into practice.
April 11, 2023
Jumpers, name dropping and politics which are the polar opposite of mine aside, Gyles is entertaining and this book is a rather good idea. He writes well, and I think out of a desire to help others, he succeeded in both helping and entertaining me. I will keep this book on my shelf and in my head.
August 26, 2024
So simple, yet so effective!
So simple, yet so effective! Thank you Gyles for taking the time to spell it out and to remind us of the simple pleasures in life! I going your book inspiring and uplifting!
So simple, yet so effective! Thank you Gyles for taking the time to spell it out and to remind us of the simple pleasures in life! I going your book inspiring and uplifting!
April 2, 2018
An uplifting easy read with lots of little gems. Thoroughly enjoyed it.
March 2, 2020
Good voice is clear throughout! Good quick read.
March 25, 2020
Quick read. 7 good calls to action to keep life spicy
September 10, 2020
Short but thought-provoking. Worth a read. I made 41 highlights on my kindle - that tells you something.
October 29, 2020
We all need a reminder now and then. This book just hits the spot. It's insightful, well written and certainly amplifies the happiness around the reader.
January 26, 2021
Easy to read. Interesting concepts but it's not as easy to be happy as the author proports.
March 23, 2022
There are lots of books like this - this one has lots of name dropping and is written by Simone who clearly had lots of advantages that others simply don’t get.
May 18, 2022
A good easy to read book. Giving a few pointers as to how to deal with life's problems.
November 22, 2022
The author seemed a bit pompous; if it were a longer book, it would’ve become intolerable.
January 3, 2023
Easy read; nothing new but succinct reminder with interesting anecdotes.
March 8, 2023
Surprisingly good. Pretty great in places. His seven secrets, produced with Dr Anthony Clare can help you become happy. I enjoyed this book. Plus it's short.
April 29, 2023
I enjoyed the first part of this book, but lost interest in the middle. And the end is a list of recommendations, in a similar vein to other self-help books.
June 7, 2023
Very easy to read.
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July 17, 2023I skimmed through this book and copied ideas in my journal--which is one of the ideas for happiness--keep a diary.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 56 reviews