Carnegie's Guide to Happiness — Book Notes

Four steps to dissolve worry:

1. Write down precisely what I am worried about.
2. What can I do about this situation?
3. Make a decision.
4. Act on it.

Habits that keep worry at bay:

1. Stay busy — a worried person keeps so occupied they forget themselves, rather than withering in despair.
2. Let go of small things.
3. Use probability to defeat worry (numbers don't lie).
4. Face facts; accept them.
5. Set a stop-loss for worry — worry has a limit too.
6. Don't worry about the past: a wise person never mourns failure but lightly searches for ways to reduce the damage.

Ways to move closer to happiness:

1. Give without expecting anything in return (don't underestimate human greed).
2. Don't think about revenge.
3. Appreciate what you have.
4. Be yourself.

How to develop immunity to criticism:

1. The more prominent you are, the more criticism you attract.
2. Don't waste energy on unjust criticism — do your best, then open an umbrella and let the blame flow past.
3. Practice self-reflection: record your own mistakes and critique yourself. Actively seek fair, constructive, helpful feedback.

Good work habits:

1. Keep things organized and orderly.
2. Handle tasks by priority.
3. Decide promptly and act immediately.
4. Learn to lead, delegate, and supervise.