The Pursuit of Happiness: Navigating the Bumps of Life
A common misconception is that we must be happy to live a fulfilling life. I am not happy, and I haven't been for a while. Life can be monotonous, and the monotony has a way of stealing away our joy. However, is happiness truly the only metric for a meaningful life?
Happiness as a Gauge of Direction
Happiness is often seen as a barometer that guides us in the right direction. By internalizing this belief, we often set the bar too high. We rush to fulfill superficial desires like buying a new car or a mobile phone. This fleeting happiness is not the true essence of contentment. True happiness is inviting and does not require the external validation of such material acquisitions. True happiness is eternal and is a reflection of the peace and satisfaction that one finds in their life.
For example, you can be thrilled by a new purchase, but this excitement is short-lived. True happiness, however, comes from the peace within. It is not altered by external changes, such as a turbulent personal or professional life. You can be in the darkest of times, yet still feel content and happy from within. Many people struggle with the notion that they should control their circumstances. Striving to do so often leads to a depletion of genuine happiness. This is akin to the two drivers in a traffic scenario. One drives aggressively, cutting through traffic, while the other drives calmly, following the flow of traffic. In both cases, the final destination may be reached, but a significant difference in personal energy expenditure and risk factor exists.
Managing Life's Bumps
Both approaches to life can result in reaching a destination, but the cost is different. Aggressive drivers face a higher risk of accidents, which can impact their happiness and peace of mind. Similarly, trying to control every situation in life incurs a higher cost in terms of lost happiness and mental well-being. It is not just control that is at stake, but the depletion of the very happiness we are seeking.
Many people also struggle with the idea of giving tit for tat when they have been wronged. They believe that by retaliating, they will gain an upper hand. However, such actions often lead to ongoing cycles of harm between individuals. The wisest option, in most cases, is to adopt a non-aggressive stance. Often, not retaliating or choosing a path of peace is more valuable than seeking retribution. It allows you to retain your inner peace and happiness, which are more valuable than the temporary satisfaction of inflicting harm.
The Purpose of Life and Happiness
Happiness is not an optional addition to our lives; it is intrinsic to our being. It is in our nature to pursue happiness. Have you ever heard someone say they don't want to be happy? It is unnatural to feel otherwise. Our bodies and minds are wired to seek fulfillment and joy. Whether it comes from simple pleasures or deep, profound experiences, the desire to be happy is a universal human trait.
In conclusion, happiness is a byproduct of a fulfilling life. It is not an absolute requirement for every moment, nor is it guaranteed by material possessions or external circumstances. True happiness comes from finding peace within and accepting the journey of life, even when it is filled with bumps and challenges.