"If at first you don't succeed, try, try again." That's what we're taught, isn't it? We keep striving for more and very often fall into the trap of "I'll be happy when. . ." believing one more achievement or one more possession will finally make us happy. But the research shows that even when we get these things, they don't result in lasting happiness. And, unfortunately, this constant pursuit of money, success, and happiness has left millions of people frustrated, knee-deep in debt, or victims of foreclosure and bankruptcy. Just look around. The symptoms are everywhere. How did we get so caught up? What led so many hard-working people to believe more money, bigger houses, fancier cars, and more successful careers or businesses were the keys to happiness? In most cases it's not about greed. We're simply in search of security, love, and happiness, three of our basic human needs. Sadly, we've been conditioned to live our lives striving for more, to compete, to win, so we can fulfill these needs. We're surrounded by messages about being, doing, and having more. As a result, from the time we're children we're taught that's the path to happiness. "Breaking The Spell" investigates the many ways we're sold happiness in the form of money, achievement, success, and material possessions. It delves into the roles played by societal and cultural influences, our educational system, youth sports, and the personal development industry. It looks at how we've been influenced by social media, reality television, and advertising. It considers the impact of the real estate and financial markets and even takes a look at generational trends, personality type, and addiction. All in an effort to understand how so many of us have become spellbound by the pursuit of money, success, and happiness. "Breaking the Spell" is not just another happiness book. It's a global wake-up call based on solid research and heart-wrenching personal experiences from people around the world, that implores us to step back and re-evaluate our constant pursuit of money, achievement, success, and yes... even happiness. So we can break the spell and finally experience the happiness we're seeking.