The Happiest Life: 7 Gifts from 7 Givers - Secrets to Genuine Success & Fulfillment | Perfect for Personal Growth, Motivational Gifts & Self-Improvement

If you are not happy, you can be. That is the message of the latest book by nationally syndicated radio talk show host Hugh Hewitt, "The Happiest Life: Seven Gifts, Seven Givers, & the Secret to Genuine Success."The book's thesis is simple: seven gifts - encouragement, energy, enthusiasm, empathy, good humor, graciousness, and gratitude - enrich those who receive them, and thereby produce happiness in those who give them.Every chapter in this book is full of examples from Hewitt's own experiences and his observations about others, including guests on his radio show. Each chapter includes a challenge to consider ways you can start giving these gifts to others.I especially appreciated the chapter on Encouragement. While reading that chapter I thought of a friend who is going through a rough patch in his career. Taking Hugh's advice, I decided I would encourage my friend. So I bought a card at Rite Aid and wrote him a note of encouragement. I found myself using a phrase Hugh recommends: "You are very good at what you do." I hope I brought encouragement to him.Regular listeners to Hewitt's radio show will enjoy the insights and stories about people Hugh has interviewed... the remarkable energy and gusto of Louis Zamperini the day he arrived at the studio to be interviewed for the radio show... Hugh's poignant recalling of the enthusiasm and curiosity of his friend Andrew Breitbart... the good humor of Dennis Prager, who believes it is necessary to "wear happiness like a coat, as armor against whatever weather life throws at you."This book is an absolute treasure. Everyone looking for graduation gifts or birthday gifts should have "The Happiest Life" at the top of their list.I will close by returning the point made at the beginning of this review, that if you are not happy you can be. Each chapter includes practical suggestions for people who want to live a happy life. Take Hugh's advice and start with small steps. Say an encouraging word to the next clerk who rings up a sale for you. Devote extra energy and attention to the things that interest your spouse. Bring enthusiasm to your project at work and your church volunteer work. Be gracious. Acknowledge teachers and others who helped you along the way. Start giving these gifts to others and you will find yourself becoming happier.