New Happy: Getting Happiness Right in a World That's Got It Wrong

by Stephanie Harrison

The definitive guide to a revolutionary new approach that will help you learn how to live a happy life—and how your happiness can change the world

We all want to be happy. This goal drives everything that we do. Why, then, are so many of us so unhappy ? It’s not your fault. You have been told a that achieving your own success will make you happy. This is “old happy,” society’s incorrect definition of happiness.
The truth is that happiness comes from helping other people to live happier lives. In New Happy , happiness expert and wildly popular Instagram artist Stephanie Harrison shares her groundbreaking new philosophy of happiness. With illuminating artwork, inspiring stories, and ten years’ worth of research, this eye-opening guide will help you find your authentic self and use it to help others—this is the proven path to happiness.
New Happy offers a step-by-step guide to finding true, lasting happiness. If you have ever asked yourself, “Who am I really?” “Why aren’t I happy yet?” or “What am I supposed to do with my life?” this book is for you.

Stop looking for happiness in all the wrong places and start experiencing it—today.

Genres: Self Help, Nonfiction, Psychology, Personal Development, Philosophy, Mental Health, Audiobook

288 pages, Hardcover

Published May 14, 2024

About the author

Stephanie Harrison is an expert in the science of happiness and an entrepreneur, writer, designer and speaker. Since receiving a master’s degree in positive psychology from the University of Pennsylvania, she has devoted her life to the study of well-being.

Her company, The New Happy, has revolutionized the way that people understand and pursue happiness. Their artwork, newsletter, videos, podcast, and resources reach millions of people around the world every month. She is a Harvard Business Review and CNBC contributor and her expertise has been featured in publications such as Fast Company, Forbes, and Architectural Digest. She is a regular speaker at Fortune 500 companies and advises on employee well-being and company culture.

Her first book, NEW HAPPY was released by Penguin Random House in May 2024.

Reviews

[A H · Rating 2 out of 5]

I followed the author’s instagram account and found it extremely practical and helpful. However I find the book a little more on the research side and stating the obvious. I didn’t enjoy reading about other people’s stories about happiness, it was not very convincing. I would recommend those who are looking for practical help to stick to the author’s instagram account.

[Yuthika · Rating 4 out of 5]

“Psychologist Patricia Greenfield conducted a study of more than one and a half million books, starting with those published in 1800 and going all the way up to 2000. She found that, over time, individualistic words like me, self, and unique began to appear far more frequently, reflecting our shifting values. The words get quadrupled in use during the course of two hundred years. Another study looked at television shows made for tweens and calculated how often they celebrated specific values. In 1967, personal fame ranked fifteenth out of sixteen of the top values. In 2007, it ranked first out of sixteen.

The second, more problematic outcome of individualism places the self at the centre of absolutely everything. In fact, de Tocqueville himself worried this might happen, concerned that America’s strength would turn into its weakness. Individualism emphasizes self-interest, even if it hurts others or the greater good. It teaches that your desires are more important than others’ needs. It disconnects you from your communities. It tells you that you are on your own. Individualism even influences the way that we conceptualize happiness: it’s my happiness, not ours. It’s this harmful aspect of individualism that underpins Old Happy.”

The research that has gone into New Happy is incredible. The designs are fantastic in their simplicity. A fresh reminder of many things we may have come across before, or that we know deep down. Familiar and bold, as the author puts it. It’s no secret. It’s really simple.. and in our darkest times, the most complex thing ever. Read this book. I know I will again.

[Sarah Landmesser · Rating 5 out of 5]

just a cute note that both of my parents had individually preordered this book on Amazon & they did not realize the other had- so i got the extra! great read for 1 year post grad about finding meaning and happiness in day to day life. great journaling prompts too, very encouraging.

[Ruairí · Rating 4 out of 5]

I have been a long time follower of The New Happy and so have been lucky to watch this book unfold. I was initially drawn to the author because of the beautiful graphics. As a visual thinker, this appealed to me. However, even though I tend to steer away from self help books I found The New Happy provides practical real life steps and examples. It's presentation is simply wonderful.

[Gabi Reggiano · Rating 2 out of 5]

I’m not much for self help books, so I read this as an audiobook while I did other tasks around the house, so keep that in mind.

Like many others, I came to this book because of the author’s social media presence. In particular, her practical strategies for handling big emotions or feelings.

There is none of that in this book. It’s ultimately a book about “finding your purpose,” which to me is not what we are here to do. That just feels like another iteration of what she calls “Old Happy”. The research here is well done and well cited. But I disagree with the fundamental idea so it didn’t really resonate much with me.

In addition, she cites many examples of folks who have found their purpose, and often they are these huge figures: Martin Luther King Jr, Mother Theresa, nobel peace prize winners. Where are the average joes like me? Most of these big figures overpower some of the smaller ones she mentions. And I wish if this book was serious about finding happiness outside of success and by connecting with your community in whatever way you can, that she had found real life examples of small things regular people did that feel more accessible.

Overall, this wasn’t the book I expected it to be, which is not the authors fault. I probably wouldn’t have picked this up at all if I knew its larger thesis was about finding a purpose in life.

[Kim Coenen · Rating 4 out of 5]

Alleen al deze titel maakt me nieuwsgierig naar het verhaal en de kennis en inzichten die Stephanie Harrison in dit boek gaat delen. Ik ben namelijk dol op non-fictie boeken en zeker op het gebied van persoonlijke ontwikkeling, groei en neurowetenschap. Ik denk dat boek daarom precies aansluit bij mijn interesses.


In New Happy geeft Stephanie Harrison een nieuwe kijk op wat je daadwerkelijk Happy maakt. Dit boek geeft een nieuwe benadering die leert hoe je een gelukkig leven kunt leiden en hoe jouw geluk de wereld kan veranderen. Iedereen wil toch gelukkig zijn? Het lijkt de drijfveer te zijn achter alles wat we doen. Waarom lijkt het dan zo dat steeds meer mensen juist ongelukkig zijn? Het najagen en bereiken van persoonlijk succes is namelijk niet iets wat je gelukkig maakt. Dit is volgens Stephanie Harrison 'oud geluk'. Nieuw geluk komt voort uit dienstbaarheid en het helpen van andere mensen. Stephanie Harrison startte een nieuwe beweging op waarmee ze door middel van full-colour visuals duidelijk maakt hoe je je authentieke zelf kan zijn en hoe je je met anderen verbindt. Zo draag je bij aan een positieve wereld en ervaar je blijvend geluk.


Wat een super inspirerend, helder en doelgericht boek is dit. Stephanie Harrison heeft een heldere, vlotte en toegankelijke schrijfstijl. Ze begint met haar eigen persoonlijke verhaal dat je meeneemt in de zoektocht naar 'Nieuw geluk'.

Het boek bestaat uit vijf verschillende delen en eindigt met een conclusie van het algehele boek. Ieder deel is weer opgedeeld in korte hoofdstukken, duidelijke paragrafen en ondersteunde visuals die het verhaal erg versterken.

In het eerste deel, De geluksmythe, vertelt Stephanie Harrison hoe dat het komt dat de manier waarop we nu constant streven naar geluk, ofwel het 'Oude geluk' ons alles behalve gelukkig maakt. Ze weet precies de vinger op de zere plek te leggen en je te confronteren aan een aantal gewoonten die je ongetwijfeld inzet en waarmee je je geluk tegenwerkt. Ook weet ze perfect de druk van de samenleving, cultuur en maatschappij te verwoorden.

In het tweede deel, Het oude geluk ontmaskerd, ga je op onderzoek naar welke leugens en gewoonten jij jezelf voorhoudt en aan voldoet waarmee je je geluk in de weg staat. In het derde deel, Geluk begrijpen, gaat Stephanie Harrison in op het 'Nieuwe geluk'. Deze eerste drie delen van het boek waren voor mij echt eyeopeners en hebben me zonder twijfel nieuwe inzichten en handvatten gegeven om blijvend geluk te gaan ervaren. Wat ook erg prettig is, is dat aan het einde van ieder hoofdstuk de belangrijkste punten worden opgesomd.

In deel 4; Talenten ontplooien en deel 5; Bijdragen aan een betere wereld vertelt Stephanie Harrison hoe je met de nieuwe inzichten kan werken en bijdragen aan meer geluk. In dit gedeelte volgen veel persoonlijke verhalen. Hoewel ze zegt dat je zelf klein kan beginnen en niet gelijk naar groot hoeft te streven, draagt ze wel bijna enkel voorbeelden van grote persoonlijke verhalen aan. Dit vond ik jammer.

New Happy is een erg leerzaam, inspirerend en helder verhaal om niet meer te streven naar 'oud geluk' zoals we altijd geleerd hebben, maar met de nieuwe wetenschappelijke inzichten en kennis van Stephanie Harrison gaan zoeken naar 'nieuw geluk'. Dit is namelijk dé manier om echt geluk te ervaren. Stephanie Harrison heeft mij weten te overtuigen, het boek biedt eye-openers en geeft mooie handvatten waardoor ik kan streven naar een gelukkig(er) leven. 

[Lucy · Rating 5 out of 5]

I this book took some time to digest. I loved getting to know myself and the world more throughout the process. The artwork along the way was great. Found this one through the authors Instagram page.

“Making our world better is not a soloist task. It is an orchestral one. In an orchestra, every instrument-the violin, the trombone, the oboe, the bass, the harp, the timpani, the cello-is needed. Were you to hear just one instrument playing its part in a symphony alone, it wouldn't make sense because it was detached from the greater whole. The beauty is in the way all of the unique parts come together.”

[Wali · Rating 5 out of 5]

-NH is not your average self help book. It is a compilation of wisdom about happiness and a refutation of tried, tested, and failed old happy formulas. Science and research backed deep dive on happiness.

-The author is an incredibly awesome human being. Go follow her everywhere on the internet.

-She leads book clubs in 5 phases where the chapters and material is discussed in a group. A transforming experience.

-I’m not saying all these praises because Stephanie is my friend. Go find out on your own and prove me wrong if you can! :)

[Donna · Rating 3 out of 5]

Some of this was 2 stars, some 3, and some 4. There was sifting required to get to the nuggets. I appreciated her zest for life. It shined as the author did her own narration.

I did get two significant take-aways from this that I'm still kicking around in my mind. I love when there is food for thought. I'm sure there was more, but two things made it worth the read. I think overall, this was 3.5 stars for me. I wish half stars were a thing.

[KSaine · Rating 5 out of 5]

Stephanie has completely redefined the meaning of happiness. As a fresh voice in personal development and happiness research, she offers a refreshing and exciting look at what it truly means to be happy. "New Happy" is a bright light, showing us a new way to think about happiness that feels both groundbreaking and genuinely relatable.

Combining deep insights with engaging visuals, this book breaks down modern notions of happiness, moving away from the fleeting and often superficial benchmarks society sets. What makes "New Happy" stand out is Stephanie's skill in blending scientific research, vibrant eye-catching visuals with personal stories, making the content both enlightening and relatable. There is something for every type of learner. The book kicks off with her personal experiences that highlight the transformative power of the principles she champions. Readers will not only reflect on their own lives but also feel inspired to embark on their own quests for deeper, more lasting happiness.

Stephanie's writing style is lively and approachable, making all psychological concepts accessible and digestible. The practical reminders throughout the book are key, encouraging readers to actively engage in rediscovering their own happiness journey. This book fosters a sense of empowerment and progress, providing actionable steps to build and sustain meaningful connections, rather than merely theorizing about the benefits of community. I have been so eager to read this book, as I have been an avid admirer and follower of Stephanie on instagram for some time. The impact her work has had on me is significant and I'm so excited she's released a book into the world when we truly need it most.

"New Happy" is a movement towards a holistic and modern understanding of happiness. Stephanie has forged a new path with thoughtfulness, compassion, and practical advice. This book is a must-read for everyone—there's something in it for all of us. In a world craving new perspectives on well-being and direction, Stephanie shines as a trailblazer. "New Happy" is a testament to the power of reimagining happiness and is set to become a cornerstone in the field of personal development and fulfillment. Stephanie's debut is truly a triumph.

[Briana Yarbrough · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was assigned to read this as part of a book group and was a bit resistant. The idea of a handbook for happiness seemed a bit triggering as someone who grew up in high-control religion that had recruitment books entitled things like, "Happiness. How to Find It." I ended up thoroughly enjoying this book, especially the mindset of identifying our gifts and using them to uplift humanity and help others. I realized I had followed Stephanie's Instagram account for years, and the perspectives she shares in her graphic art had helped me as I was deconstructing even before I left the aforementioned organization.

[Kelly Racadio · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book and would definitely recommend it to anyone who has ever felt lost in life or like they don't belong. So this should basically be everyone. It took me way too long to learn that being happy is being of service to others, not what the world is giving to you. The stats in the book really nailed down how the West has an issue with individualism and not enough community values. Also loved the graphics throughout the book.

[Logan · Rating 5 out of 5]

A blueprint for happiness grounded in science that focuses more on application than explaining every bit of research Stephanie draws from. The pursuit of happiness through wealth and status feels so outdated now. Finding happiness in a lasting, meaningful way requires a change in mindset, and this book will certainly help you get there.

[Kat · Rating 4 out of 5]

It is not often I finish reading something and want to restart from the beginning. The definitions of both old and new happy resonated with me. The practical questions for self reflection and consideration greatly added to the reading experience. I believe I will continue to think about this and how it fits within my world.

[Lei T · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love how the author used colorful and catchy art to further illustrate the concepts that she was sharing. She also shared advice/tips that you feel you can actually do. This book is staying on my “to be reread” shelf 🥰

[JayBooksie · Rating 1 out of 5]

Filled with empty platitudes propping up the same research we have all read 1000 times.

[Cindy · Rating 3 out of 5]

A perspective I needed to hear at this point in my life and starting my career. The things that were bothering me before feel a little less heavy after reading this. Also helps me see past some of the negative effects of social media.

[Ruth · Rating 2 out of 5]

In general, the author has good points, but I just can't agree with some of the things she mentions in passing as beliefs everyone holds. She has good intentions and has good ideas for concrete actions, but she has obviously bought into the mistaken worldview espoused by academia.

[Eric Sasson · Rating 4 out of 5]

The first book I read that explicitly states that our own happiness is not just about discovering what we are passionate about/good at, but that true happiness only can arise when we find a way to use our passions/strengths in service to others. This really resonates with me.

[Kerri D · Rating 4 out of 5]

As always- a couple good points. Some repetition. 3.5

[San Shimry · Rating 3 out of 5]

"The psychological rule says that when an inner situation is not made conscious, it happens outside as fate." - Carl Jung

She quotes this close to the beginning and it's clear that she has written the book as her own form of contributing to society by naming the problem she wants to solve. Good job, Stephanie.

The reference to the positive psychology theme of the book is in the title: Getting Happiness Right In A World That's Got It Wrong. In the book she references points taken from research and anecdotes. It sometimes reads as repetitive or reminiscent of lessons I've already learned in life. Nevertheless, the book is made unique by her philosophy of New Happy. As far as philosophies go, this is a good one.

I think it's a good book to read, and one to revisit. Like, if your brain is feeling muddled, this can help clear it up by reminding you of your worth, purpose and connection to humanity. Or if you feel that you've internalised a lot of data on how to be happy but it hasn't quite turned it into information yet. Or if you're young and trying to figure out happiness. It gets you organised about it.

But, I still prefer her Instagram page.

[Lauren D'Souza · Rating 3 out of 5]

Stephanie Harrison is a creator whose videos I love on tiktok - she has a whole series in which she teaches you skills you “should have been taught as a child but probably weren’t” - things like how to feel your feelings, how to listen, how to be angry, how to love yourself. I was hoping this book would be a little like that series - in many ways, it has that same loving and hopeful tone that she takes in her videos, but focuses on something different: her philosophy for being happy.

This “new happy” places a major emphasis on our interconnectedness with one another, finding your own talents, and using them to help others. I don’t usually read books like this and sadly, this one didn’t resonate with me very much. It’s a lot of good advice, but things I felt I was already familiar with.

[Sarah Carty Dalgetty · Rating 5 out of 5]

Alright, this is the one. This may be a book about happiness but it's also a roadmap to a better world. At times I found it a little too hand-wavy but as a whole I see the fundamental shift in mindset it brings. The skeptic in me still wonders how realistic it is to make things better that will actually stick, but the human in me appreciates the actionable advice that complements the need to connect. Ultimately the outcome doesn't really matter as much when I start small, trust the process, and learn to grow.

[Angela Fellin · Rating 4 out of 5]

Ok....

In general, the concept of connectedness stands strong in this book, but part of me felt that The New Happy also needs to discuss healthy BOUNDARIES.

[Mandy Johnson · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this book. It's a great perspective-shifting study. There were a few times I was moved to tears; it clearly struck a chord. I opened this book when I needed it most.

I love this particularly moving quote from Lesson 5 from the second to last chapter:
"Act, even if it feels hopeless. Act, even if you're scared. Act, even if it seems too small to make a difference. Hope will follow." - Stephanie Harrison

[Michelle · Rating 3 out of 5]

A nice and uplifting audiobook for my commute

[Monica Zebold-Bell · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is a tough one. I usually use my spiritual reading to guide my life's actions, but a dear friend recommended this book as life-changing, so I kept at it.
The moral of the story is that to find happiness, you need to serve others. I agree with that 300%. However, I felt that the book was very repetitive—each chapter had the same message. I also thought the "graphics" were a waste of colored ink.
But, at the end of the day, it was the correct message with some tools to employ.

[Rachel · Rating 5 out of 5]

A book everyone should read, especially in today’s times.

[H · Rating 1 out of 5]

There is nothing new in this book.

[fruitcake · Rating 4 out of 5]

I feel like the main message could have been summed up in one page, but instead had to be listed out over and over and over again. The book mostly emphasizes that you can be happy by leveraging personal strengths and fostering meaningful connections.

Interestingly enough, this is a very similar message from the *Clifton StrengthsFinder*, published over 20 years ago. I think it’s helpful to have information shared in different and new ways, so that it can find new audiences.

As someone who has actively applied the StrengthsFinder to her life, I wanted to make note of some of the similarities (these are my personal notes and not really reflective of a review)

~~~~

The New Happy and Clifton StrengthsFinder both emphasize living a fulfilling life by leveraging personal strengths and fostering meaningful connections. Here’s how they align:

1. Discovering & Using Your Strengths for Fulfillment
• Clifton StrengthsFinder: Identifies your unique talents and strengths, emphasizing that true success and happiness come from using them effectively.
• The New Happy: Argues that happiness comes from using your gifts to help others, rather than just for personal achievement.

Connection: Both frameworks highlight that fulfillment doesn’t come from fixing weaknesses but from recognizing and embracing what makes you unique—and then applying those strengths in ways that create impact.

2. Moving from Individual Success to Collective Well-Being
• Clifton StrengthsFinder: Encourages individuals to develop their talents, but also recognizes that strengths are most powerful when used in collaboration with others.
• The New Happy: Challenges the traditional idea that happiness is about personal success, arguing that happiness actually grows when we help others and build community.

Connection: Both encourage shifting from a purely self-focused mindset to one that embraces interdependence—your strengths aren’t just for you; they thrive when used in connection with others.

3. Overcoming the Fear of Asking for Help
• Clifton StrengthsFinder: Shows that we all have different strengths, meaning we need others to complement us in areas where we’re less strong.
• The New Happy: States that rejecting help can make us more unhappy, and that embracing interdependence leads to deeper fulfillment.

Connection: Both frameworks highlight that asking for and accepting help isn’t a weakness—it’s actually an important part of maximizing potential and well-being.

4. Living with Purpose & Authenticity
• Clifton StrengthsFinder: Encourages people to align their work and life with their natural strengths for a more authentic, engaged life.
• The New Happy: Emphasizes that happiness isn’t about external success but about living in alignment with your values and making a meaningful contribution.

Connection: Both suggest that real happiness comes not from conforming to societal expectations but from embracing who you are and using that to create meaning.

Bringing Them Together in Practice

• The New Happy takes the StrengthsFinder a step further and says that true happiness comes when you use those strengths to help others, rather than just for personal success.

• StrengthsFinder shows that we all have gaps and need others to complement us. The New Happy explains that refusing help actually makes us less happy because it isolates us, even though we think we’re protecting ourselves.”

By merging these ideas, you can make a compelling case for why personal strengths and meaningful connections are both essential to a truly fulfilling life.