Build the Life You Want: The Art and Science of Getting Happier

In this chapter, Brooks and Winfrey explore the pillar of work, one of the four pillars that they believe to be essential to building a high-quality lifestyle. They recommend seeking intrinsic rewards, or inner fulfillment, in one’s work rather than relying solely upon extrinsic motivators such as money or status. Furthermore, they explain that there are many different types of career paths, and that deviating from a linear path should never be a source of shame. Linear paths are the most traditional career paths; in this model, individuals progress gradually and predictably in their chosen field, only taking a new job if it promises higher pay or status. By contrast, steady-state paths are characterized by stability and a focus on mastery rather than on constant upward mobility. In other versions, so-called transitory paths involve frequent job changes and the active exploration of different fields, while spiral paths involve a combination of linear and transitory elements that allow individuals to pursue multiple interests and careers over time.

The authors also address the issue of “workaholism,” or the compulsive need to work excessively.