This work explains that unhappiness is so persistent because it is hardwired into our brains. It argues that stress and fear were vital in primitive times, but are destructive for our lives today. We cannot feel fear and appreciation simultaneously and can only be happy by adopting practical steps for appreciating and loving life. It argues that we can't talk our way out of problems - we have to do something. It explains that there are key things that all happy people have in common and from there develops six happiness tools that it explains can be incorporated into our daily lives: appreciating what we have; making choices; building personal power; leading with strengths; telling healthy stories about our lives; and living a balanced life. It exhorts the reader to be proactive and learn these simple tools and make them a habit.