I think, therefore I am. Can a life be successful? Is it even possible to solve this fundamental riddle of human existence? Are there scientific insights that we should consider in shaping our lives? Yes: It is not money, not achievement, and not constant fun that are important for a fulfilling life. At the forefront are good relationships, the experience of being able to actively change something, a healthy stress balance, and a sense of coherence. The latest findings in brain research have proven this, showing how little the commonly pursued life goals actually mean. To truly feel happiness, we are challenged to rethink radically, as psychiatrist Hans-Otto Thomashoff demonstrates how strongly we are influenced by emotions - and how we can utilize them.