The Myth of More
and Other Lifetraps That Sabotage the Happiness You Deserve
Joseph R. Novello, M.D

Spirituality and true happiness
In confusing happiness with pleasure, people set themselves up for continual failure. Pleasure is a short-term high that comes from without, while happiness is an abiding serenity that comes from within. It lies in accepting who we are right now and what we have right now.

There are two main obstacles to happiness, says the author. The first is one's "lifetraps" or patterns of behavior that worked in childhood but now cause us to be dysfunctional as adults. Overcoming one's lifetraps is not enough; refusing to go beyond this is the second obstacle. One must also incorporate spirituality in one's life and harmonize one's desires with God's will. This insightful blend of traditional psychiatry with spirituality draws on both contemporary and classic writers, as well as on fascinating case studies as illustration. Key themes touched on include understanding the past, living in the present, detachment, religion, spirituality, love, and more. The author helps readers realize that, while we can't be shielded from everyday ups and downs, we all possess the power to be happy.

The book is simple and upbeat yet is backed with serious thought and a powerful message. Spiritual seekers, self-help readers, and those in need of change may find it a source of personal breakthrough. The title is also an excellent resource for counselors, spiritual directors, pastors, religious and clergy, and retreat directors.

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"Joe Novello is a master at helping people. This book is essential reading for anyone who desires to truly improve themselves."
-Larry King
CNN's Larry King Live

"Well written in a straightforward narrative style, Novello's book clarifies the relationship between mental health and spirituality in a way that carries conviction throughout. It is one of the most helpful books I have read and was as hard to put down as a really good detective story."
-Monika K. Hellwig, Executive Director, Association of Catholic Colleges and Universities
"Challenging the cultural assumption that more is better, an experienced psychiatrist redirects us to our need for God at the center of our lives and of love as the only thing that will satisfy our hearts. Admitting the essential limitations of psychiatry, Dr. Novello reminds us of the wider horizons in which the human spirit needs to breathe. This is a book in the wisdom tradition, rich in its accounts of contemporary seekers, clearly and convincingly rendered."
Thomas Hart, Ph. D.
Author of Spiritual Quest

"The Myth of More combines the insights of an experienced psychiatrist and the plain speech of a down-to-earth and caring human being. Through concrete case histories, Dr. Joseph Novello, M.D., clearly illustrates how therapy can help us overcome unconscious impediments to happiness rooted in childhood and open us to the contentment and joy that authentic spirituality can bring. He has provided a helpful guide to psychological health and spiritual development."
-Wilkie Au, author of:
The Enduring Heart: Spirituality for the Long Haul