Oprah Winfrey is collaborating with Harvard professor Arthur C. Brooks on an upcoming book titled "Build the Life You Want: The Art and Science of Getting Happier," scheduled for release on September 12, as reported by PEOPLE.
During the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic, Winfrey came across Brooks' Atlantic Magazine column, "How to Build a Life," which resonated deeply with her. She remarked that Brooks' expertise and insights reminded her of the days when she hosted her renowned talk show, where she often sought experts like him to address various life dilemmas, challenges, and personal growth.
The book not only delves into personal happiness but also explores how to share that happiness with others, a practice that Oprah herself cherishes. She stated, "Gratitude has always been at the core of my being. To have it reinforced by Arthur and his scientific research is truly meaningful to me." Oprah has been keeping journals since the age of 15 and still retains some of her early journals, highlighting the importance of reflection and self-expression in her life.
The book is also about sharing happiness with others, which she says she loves to do.
She says it all comes down to making others feel validated and seen.
“One of the threads for me for all those years of listening was that all humans are looking to be validated. No matter what the show was, whether it was Senator Obama, Beyoncé, or somebody who had overcome cancer. At the end of every one of those interviews, in one form or another, someone always said, "Was that okay? How was that? Was that good?"
In her conversation with PEOPLE, Oprah Winfrey noted that Arthur C. Brooks' work, as a scientist, aligns with her existing beliefs. She expressed that his research reaffirmed her approach to life, which centers around fundamental principles such as family, friendship, work, and faith. Oprah found it reassuring to have a scientist endorse her perspective, emphasizing that she considers herself one of the happiest individuals she knows. She clarified that her happiness is rooted in the simplicity of life's pleasures, despite living a grand and eventful life that may not conform to conventional expectations.
