The Happiness Trap by Russ Harris
The Happiness Trap
The Happiness Trap: How to Stop Struggling and Start Living by Russ Harris provides an accessible introduction to Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT).
Counterintuitive Approach
The central idea is paradoxical but powerful: intentionally seeking happiness often leads to more suffering. Harris argues that our cultural obsession with positive thinking and feeling good actually creates a “happiness trap” that increases psychological distress.
Acceptance over Avoidance
The book emphasizes accepting difficult thoughts and feelings rather than fighting or avoiding them. This mindfulness-based approach helps readers develop psychological flexibility and reduce the impact of negative emotions without trying to eliminate them.
Values-Based Living
Beyond acceptance, Harris guides readers toward identifying their core values and taking committed action aligned with those values. This focus on meaningful living rather than feeling good provides a more sustainable path to wellbeing than the pursuit of happiness itself.