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Creating Your Best Life: The Ultimate Life List Guide
Creating Your Best Life is the only research-based book on the topic of goals and happiness, and it has found receptive audiences worldwide. Filled with interactive exercises and quizzes, it helps readers set and accomplish life list goals and understand the link between goal accomplishment and happiness, also known as Positive Psychology. In a step-by-step fashion, the book teaches readers how to coach themselves on how to set goals in 16 life domains, as well as take control of their environment to maximize their chances of success.
288 pages, Paperback
First published January 6, 2009
243 people are currently reading
1817 people want to read
About the author
Caroline Adams Miller
19 books53 followersI am the author of "Creating Your Best Life: The Ultimate Life List Guide" (Sterling 2009) which is the first book to combine the science of happiness with the science of goal accomplishment. I am one of the first graduates of the University of Pennsylvania's Masters in Applied Positive Psychology program, and I work with clients all over the world as a professional coach. I am the author of other books, including "My Name is Caroline," "Feeding the Soul," and "Bright Words for Dark Days.""
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 55 reviews
December 27, 2014
I have been on a positive psychology kick lately, but I feel like I am entering that stage of diminishing returns. It might be time to lay off the self help books for me. The ironic thing is how addictive self improvement can be in the planning stages. It's energizing to get a book about creating your best life or buying that program that will give you a six pack, but the possession of such books or programs does nothing to achieving those goals unless you actually take the time to apply them. The application part is the dirty work.
This is a good book for people who are natural list makers and planners. It's well organized and follows a logical progression. The part I learned most about was the chapter on primes, so this was a helpful book for me. It might be less inspirational than many other books and may actually encourage a prolonged planning state in people who are prone to that, but it has compiled much relevant research for those that need that foundation.
This is a great book for the end of the year when you are casting about for New Year's resolutions.
This is a good book for people who are natural list makers and planners. It's well organized and follows a logical progression. The part I learned most about was the chapter on primes, so this was a helpful book for me. It might be less inspirational than many other books and may actually encourage a prolonged planning state in people who are prone to that, but it has compiled much relevant research for those that need that foundation.
This is a great book for the end of the year when you are casting about for New Year's resolutions.
January 9, 2022
This book does include some extremely valid points about how to create a happier life. It contains studies and tactics that are interesting and helpful, though most are not original to the author of this book. There are also a lot of exercises that readers can choose to complete - self reflection and analysis is key, so readers should choose which exercises feel most helpful and relevant to them.
However, the positives of this book are so overshadowed by the bullshit. Some of the core content is valuable, but the book itself is just bad. I felt like it was written for the absolute lowest common denominator of the population. It was honestly insulting at times to read it.
I read the “updated” 2020 version, but it was originally written in 2009. Since then, I really think there has been a culture shift away from the hustle and optimizing productivity and ultra-competitive ethos that dominated American culture broadly and the personal development publications more specifically. But this book hammers on these concepts. Maybe this is a case of this book being the wrong book at the wrong time for me, but it just didn’t work.
This book is also weirdly self-promotional and congratulatory. It is off putting to purchase a book, get home and start reading it, only to spend the first 20 pages with the author trying to convince me of how good and important the book is, and how you should absolutely buy it! It’s like…I already have the book in my hands. Just tell me what I came here to learn.
I would only recommend this book as a skim read - pick up on the key points and incorporate strategies that make sense for your life, complete a few exercises, but do not spend more time than you have to reading this woman’s words.
However, the positives of this book are so overshadowed by the bullshit. Some of the core content is valuable, but the book itself is just bad. I felt like it was written for the absolute lowest common denominator of the population. It was honestly insulting at times to read it.
I read the “updated” 2020 version, but it was originally written in 2009. Since then, I really think there has been a culture shift away from the hustle and optimizing productivity and ultra-competitive ethos that dominated American culture broadly and the personal development publications more specifically. But this book hammers on these concepts. Maybe this is a case of this book being the wrong book at the wrong time for me, but it just didn’t work.
This book is also weirdly self-promotional and congratulatory. It is off putting to purchase a book, get home and start reading it, only to spend the first 20 pages with the author trying to convince me of how good and important the book is, and how you should absolutely buy it! It’s like…I already have the book in my hands. Just tell me what I came here to learn.
I would only recommend this book as a skim read - pick up on the key points and incorporate strategies that make sense for your life, complete a few exercises, but do not spend more time than you have to reading this woman’s words.
May 1, 2012
Creating Your Best Life is the only research-based book on the topic of goals and happiness, and it has found receptive audiences worldwide. Filled with interactive exercises and quizzes, it helps readers set and accomplish life list goals and understand the link between goal accomplishment and happiness, also known as Positive Psychology. In a step-by-step fashion, the book teaches readers how to coach themselves on how to set goals in 16 life domains, as well as take control of their environment to maximize their chances of success.
(Barnes&Noble)
(Barnes&Noble)
April 3, 2017
This was a book group selection- at first I thought, “Fun- make lists. I’m a list maker.” As I started the book though I hated it. The chapters themselves were good, but at the end was a list of tasks to do- watch a movie, do a worksheet, and make a list. Too much work! However, because I am a solid book group member, I persevered. I came to find that this book would be very useful for someone who felt they weren’t getting what they wanted out of life. Who was thinking of all the things they hadn’t done. The author mixed scientific studies of positive psychology (psychology of happiness) with anecdotal stories. I started to like it on behalf of other people.
Then I got to the house exercise! The house exercise gave about 12 different values: family, friends, money, spirituality, etc. The exercise was to take these values and build house. The first floor was those values that were most important to you. The second the things that were not as important, but still important, and up and up until you got to the very top of the house of things totally unimportant to you. I really found this to be a fun self-reflective exercise. When done, it was interesting to look at my house and consider if I’m really putting in effort in the areas that I think/say are the most important to me.
The book discusses why we get stuck or stop pursuing a goal, how we can sabotage ourselves, how to determine if the goal is something we really want, and how to know when it’s time to let go of a goal-which I thought really added integrity to the book. This is not a book that will tell you do something just because you want to do it, but will really have you thinking about the things you want and considering why you aren’t pursuing them, and if you should be.
In the end, I still did not do most of the tasks (I only did the house and the grit survey- I'm grittier than average), do the worksheets, or write the lists but still felt this book offered a lot of interesting ideas.
Then I got to the house exercise! The house exercise gave about 12 different values: family, friends, money, spirituality, etc. The exercise was to take these values and build house. The first floor was those values that were most important to you. The second the things that were not as important, but still important, and up and up until you got to the very top of the house of things totally unimportant to you. I really found this to be a fun self-reflective exercise. When done, it was interesting to look at my house and consider if I’m really putting in effort in the areas that I think/say are the most important to me.
The book discusses why we get stuck or stop pursuing a goal, how we can sabotage ourselves, how to determine if the goal is something we really want, and how to know when it’s time to let go of a goal-which I thought really added integrity to the book. This is not a book that will tell you do something just because you want to do it, but will really have you thinking about the things you want and considering why you aren’t pursuing them, and if you should be.
In the end, I still did not do most of the tasks (I only did the house and the grit survey- I'm grittier than average), do the worksheets, or write the lists but still felt this book offered a lot of interesting ideas.
June 30, 2017
I find that there's a certain way to read self help books - skimming, and with a great big grain of salt. And this book is no exception.
Like so many of the genre, Creating Your Best Life throws out many facts to sell itself as The Answer, but without a whole lot of backing. So in between some interesting life advice, we get a section on how millenials lack self-control.
But, in the middle of that, there is some interesting advice. I would have apprecated a little more hand holding in writing goals that aren't about travel or sports.
In any case, it's a quick read that may or may not have some helpful tips. It's worth checking out from the library.
Like so many of the genre, Creating Your Best Life throws out many facts to sell itself as The Answer, but without a whole lot of backing. So in between some interesting life advice, we get a section on how millenials lack self-control.
But, in the middle of that, there is some interesting advice. I would have apprecated a little more hand holding in writing goals that aren't about travel or sports.
In any case, it's a quick read that may or may not have some helpful tips. It's worth checking out from the library.
June 11, 2014
I wanted to like this book; I'm a huge list maker at heart, but I just couldn't get into it. I felt like the premise was very scientific and statistic based and didn't offer me any personal connection or motivation to work on my own life. Not worth the time to read.
July 7, 2021
Disliked the title but enjoyed the content
July 18, 2009
This is a great book! The authors do a good job of summarizing lots of research, making it digestable in bullet points, and providing ways you can apply the research findings. They draw a lot on the burgeoning positive psychology field. A quick read and enjoyable, although I lagged a bit on it because I was trying to do the exercises and fill in the worksheets they provide (a big plus!).
One of the most helpful exercises for me was the Happiness House exercise, where you identify the areas of life that are most important to you (e.g., family, spirituality, money, community, etc.), and make goals in those areas. The argument is that accomplishing goals in the areas that are most important to you will yield more happiness than pursuing goals in areas of less importantance.
They give lots of tips to increase your success achieving goals – if-then statements, creating a community of support (the right ones – no nay-sayers!), and more. I just wish there was maybe more discussion on how to organize all these goals, how to make time for them, how to know when to move on to the next, how to reflect upon them, etc.
Reading the book has definitely helped motivate me to bring more purpose, vitality, and zest into my life, and to dream up goals I can get excited about. I have also started using this goal-minded thinking at work to focus my energies and celebrate small and large accomplishments.
One of the most helpful exercises for me was the Happiness House exercise, where you identify the areas of life that are most important to you (e.g., family, spirituality, money, community, etc.), and make goals in those areas. The argument is that accomplishing goals in the areas that are most important to you will yield more happiness than pursuing goals in areas of less importantance.
They give lots of tips to increase your success achieving goals – if-then statements, creating a community of support (the right ones – no nay-sayers!), and more. I just wish there was maybe more discussion on how to organize all these goals, how to make time for them, how to know when to move on to the next, how to reflect upon them, etc.
Reading the book has definitely helped motivate me to bring more purpose, vitality, and zest into my life, and to dream up goals I can get excited about. I have also started using this goal-minded thinking at work to focus my energies and celebrate small and large accomplishments.
September 28, 2009
I'm not usually one for books like this, but I like this one. There's no attempt at magical thinking. This "self-improvement" stuff is based on actual solid Ivy League research, not pixie dust. You don't even need to create a life list to get something out of this book about developing happiness in your own life if you aren't naturally prone to such a thing, or if you've hit a particularly rough patch that you need help crawling through. It's an easy read, and actually does make you feel good.
December 26, 2013
There is a genetically determined happiness set point which is a hardwired predisposition for happiness. This is between 20-50% of what goes into happiness. The other two components are voluntary behaviors and circumstances. We adapt to changing circumstances, the hedonic treadmill. Happiness dips during the forties has life goals seem harder to achieve.Keys to happiness:-Enjoy each day; br challenged and can meet challenges; foster good relationships; have faith; be healthy and optimistic; Compare down, not up and have enough not to be concerned with survival.
October 8, 2012
This is one of the most engaging, motivating, and practical books I have ever read. I have had a Life List for many years, so was already bought in to the basic premise of this book, which is goal setting. This book is full of research, case studies, and very specific examples of how to set - and reach - your goals, both small and large. Although I finished reading this book, I am still practicing many of its exercises, such as gratitude journaling, mediating, and habit creation. I will certainly be rereading this book soon. I highly recommend!
June 21, 2012
A singularly good book on the topic of seeting goals, with worksheets you can photocopy and use over and over. I checked it out of the library, yet it would be worth buying and reviewing.
Exercises like the Happiness House and "Ben There, Done That" help you clarify your life's focus and the changes you need to make, one goal at a time. It also gives you the chance to create a Bucket List of things to do before you die.
The best book of its kind on goal-setting.
Exercises like the Happiness House and "Ben There, Done That" help you clarify your life's focus and the changes you need to make, one goal at a time. It also gives you the chance to create a Bucket List of things to do before you die.
The best book of its kind on goal-setting.
September 4, 2014
Too Christian and too American for me. I mostly skimmed it...to be fair, I was looking for something in this book that it did not contain. I hoped it might address what happens when you achieve all your goals and pat yourself on the back....what's next? People don't appear to write books or chapters in books about this. However, Google was helpful in finding articles written on this topic, so I'm good now.
March 12, 2017
This book has 18 chapters and 5 parts. Part 5 (pages 223-254) is just exercises and worksheets. It includes notes, resources and an index.
It's more about making goals than a life list. Much of it reads like a pep talk. I think it is a good book and well written, just not quite what I was looking for.
It's more about making goals than a life list. Much of it reads like a pep talk. I think it is a good book and well written, just not quite what I was looking for.
March 7, 2013
Really wonderful book for anyone interested in the science and tools needed for successful goal setting & achieving. I would give it 5 stars if it included more detail. Perhaps that would have made the book too long, as the purpose of the research is to just get you going on your goals. Overall a wonderful book.
January 14, 2013
This is the second time I've read this book, probably not the last. It is exactly the type of non-fiction I enjoy. Each insight is backed by scientific evidence and anecdotes then matched with suggestions for incorporating the findings into your own life to your benefit. Regardless of how good your life is, this book can offer ideas to make it better.
June 17, 2015
I skimmed the front sections of this book. It had some good tidbits and takeaways. I found some of the examples long and not relevant to my goals. The exercises in the back of the book are very useful for anyone looking for prompts or help brainstorming towards how to reach success achieving your goals.
December 25, 2012
Awesome book to read at the end of the year (pure coincidence). Great goal setting information and action plans to create your best life. Highly recommended. Definitely gave me new ways to think about how I am creating what I want (or don't want)!
February 21, 2016
Awesome book! It is chock full of information and scientific techniques to help you realize goals. I have been looking for a book that is based on scientific studies related to goal accomplishment rather then the more esoteric, i.e. "The Secret".
January 28, 2019
I picked up this book as a recommendation from and follow-up to Martin Seligman’s book, Flourish. Creating Your Best Life takes research from positive psychology and makes it readable and applicable. There are great worksheets in the back to encourage self-exploration and goal-setting.
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November 10, 2013Inspired by this book, I'm keeping my life list here -- http://www.mylifelist.org/members/Pub...
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September 28, 2012Great book....
BEST word in the book "write what you want & it will happen" :)
BEST word in the book "write what you want & it will happen" :)
July 26, 2025
Been on a positive psychology kick, and this is written by one of the graduates of the MAPP - Masters of Applied Positive Psychology program that Martin Seligman started. It is overall a good read - not so long, and more to the point and focused than others in this genre - I'm looking at you, The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People: Powerful Lessons in Personal Change. I also really enjoyed doing the exercises, and have already crossed off a solid number of my life goals.
Definitely recommended, if you are also getting into positive psychology.
Definitely recommended, if you are also getting into positive psychology.
July 19, 2022
Although I'm not one for self help books and goal setting can set me on edge, I've found that I absolutely need to have goals to accomplish things, to avoid procrastination which leads to stress, and to find happiness in spending time doing things and valuing things that give me pleasure. I also just appreciate being rather than always striving, but peace and serenity are goals too. This book helps me to assess what I value and why I would want to focus on things that I value rather than spending a lot my time on the shoulds.
February 24, 2018
Started a little naf but the second half of the book is so much better. There are some really valuable, practical systems and tools for any individual or coach who wants to fool-proof their goal setting and accomplishment tactics. Well worth a read of you can gloss over the occasional wishy washy happiness spiel.
May 11, 2019
A good and helpful book, but only if you are willing to put in the time to do the exercises. Read it with a group of friends (definitely recommend!) but was only to give it about 50% effort. I will go back to it at some point.
Somewhat geared to people at an earlier stage of life - say in their 30s.
Somewhat geared to people at an earlier stage of life - say in their 30s.
November 23, 2022
By the end of this book you will have a clear understanding of (1) the most important priorities in your life and (2) the biggest goals/dreams in your life. You will also have a better grasp on the areas of life that bring happiness vs efforts of futility.
Packed with powerful data. A slow read. A true gem for all high-output individuals.
Packed with powerful data. A slow read. A true gem for all high-output individuals.
March 19, 2023
Dit boek helpt je bij het bepalen en behalen van doelen door een duidelijke en gestructureerde basis aan te reiken. Men geeft aan dat als je deze zaken aanpakt je kans op succes vergroot en men koppelt dit regelmatig aan wetenschappelijk onderzoek.
Ik las het boek oorspronkelijk om een andere, persoonlijke reden. Ik vond wat ik hoopte te vinden en dit boek heeft voor mij dus mijn doel bereikt. 🙂
Ik las het boek oorspronkelijk om een andere, persoonlijke reden. Ik vond wat ik hoopte te vinden en dit boek heeft voor mij dus mijn doel bereikt. 🙂
December 29, 2021
The part about Millenials not being gritty or willing to work hard is extremely outdated. 3.75/5 stars. Would have been an actual 4 had it not been for that page-long Boomer rant about the younger generation. Enjoyed the worksheets and activities.
January 28, 2025
3.5 stars - Some good information, including powerful questions/worksheets to use to make your life list, but really slow pacing and definitely outdated examples. The tone is often overly confident that They are the Source of the Perfect Answers for your life, which got grating.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 55 reviews