You Can Be Happy No Matter What by Richard Carlson dissolves some of the illusions that cause our suffering. Our external circumstances often appear to be the cause of our suffering or happiness, but closer examination reveals that it is our thoughts that affect our well-being.
However, thoughts are not the same as reality. Just because we think something doesn’t mean it is true. Yet all too often we give our thoughts too much credit and allow them to dictate how we feel. Carlson explores this relationship between thoughts, feelings and reality and reveals the alternatives.
Carlson’s message supports the idea that if you want to change your life, you must begin by changing yourself. Some of the best books to read to change your life are quite challenging and deal with abstract spiritual concepts, but this book is very easy to read. The ideas are presented with down-to-earth everyday examples that most people can relate to.