The happiness curve

Drawing on cutting-edge research, Jonathan Rauch explains that happiness follows a U-shaped trajectory, declining from the optimism of youth into a low trough in middle age before rising again in the 50s.

This midlife slump is defined as a natural stage of life, equipping individuals with new tools for wisdom and gratitude.

The book features insights from various individuals, including everyday people and notable figures, and discusses how social, rather than material, factors influence happiness in later life.