I am the CEO of Happyness and the final job I’ll ever have — and I love it. My first book, The Pursuit of Happyness, became a #1 New York Times and Washington Post bestseller, translated into more than 40 languages and six Chinese dialects, with its first Arabic edition now underway. While it tells my story, I’ve always believed it’s really the story of all of us — anyone who had every reason to quit and chose not to. It is a testament to the power of choice.

The book inspired the critically acclaimed, iconic film starring Will Smith, whose portrayal earned Golden Globe, Screen Actors Guild, and Academy Award nominations. My second bestselling book, Start Where You Are, was released during the global financial crisis — proof that timing favors preparation, not comfort.

I survived cycles that should have ended my story: poverty, abuse, homelessness, and becoming a working homeless veteran raising a toddler son. Two decisions changed everything. First, my children would always know their father. Second, I would become world-class at whatever I chose to do. That commitment led to a 30-year career on Wall Street and a lifetime dedicated to helping others realize what’s possible.

Today, my mission is simple: to help create the next Chris Gardner — by reminding audiences everywhere that if I can do this, you can do that.