The Pursuit of Happiness

I recently came upon a video of a very wise elderly man discussing happiness. While I appreciated everything he had to say, I couldn't help but think, "If we are being realistic, material things are also a significant source of happiness, only that the extent people go towards acquiring them can make this happiness even more short-lived." In the search for happiness, we frequently find ourselves navigating a maze of options and influences that shape our perceptions of what truly brings fulfilment. At the centre of this journey is a fundamental question: does happiness come from extrinsic values, like accumulating expensive possessions and wealth, or does it stem from only intrinsic values, like helping and caring for others? Let's explore this fascinating topic and investigate the complicated interaction of intrinsic and external values in our pursuit of pleasure.

In today's consumer-driven world, believing that material goods and outward successes may buy happiness is tempting. We are constantly shown messages that associate happiness with the size of our bank accounts, the brand of our goods, and the amount of likes on social media. However, multiple studies have found that happiness derived from external values is generally short-lived and shallow. While material riches and position might bring short-term pleasure and comfort, they rarely lead to long-term happiness or fulfilment if not managed properly.  The reason is that pursuing external goals may create an endless cycle of comparison, anxiety, and dissatisfaction since there will always be someone with greater riches, prestige, or goods.

In contrast, intrinsic values can provide a road to true and enduring happiness. When we focus on helping and caring for others, building meaningful connections, and engaging in activities that match our interests and beliefs, we experience a deeper feeling of fulfilment. Kindness, empathy, compassion, and assisting others will also have a significant positive impact on our well-being. Volunteering, assisting others, and building social relationships have all been linked to higher happiness levels, life satisfaction, and general well-being.

Acquiring outward possessions is not always bad, even though inner values are necessary to cultivate long-lasting satisfaction. Material prosperity and success can improve our quality of life by allowing for personal growth and self-expression, which leads to happiness. Depending on the circumstances, material prosperity may offer happiness and satisfaction, either temporarily or permanently. A new car, designer clothing, or a dream trip may all generate feelings of happiness and satisfaction in the moment, but also, thinking about those experiences can elicit feelings of happiness. However, focusing entirely on obtaining happiness via materialism might lead to a never-ending cycle of spending in which our happiness depends on the external, which may be beyond our control.

So what do we do? In my opinion, the secret is to find a balance between intrinsic and extrinsic values and to realise that external success markers alone cannot determine true happiness. We can develop a sense of fulfilment that goes beyond material wealth and societal expectations by putting relationships, personal development, and contributions to the greater good first. It is crucial to understand that true fulfilment results from finding a balance between material wealth and human connection. Although having enough money is obviously necessary to meet our basic needs and to provide opportunities for growth and self-expression, our relationships and contributions to the welfare of others are what ultimately give life its greatest meaning and purpose. This is what Abraham Maslow's theory calls Self-Actualization, the peak on the pyramid of his Hierarchy of Needs.

By reorienting our attention away from the unrelenting chase of external goods and towards the development of empathy, compassion, and altruism, we may achieve greater satisfaction and fulfilment in our lives. We can change the world and feel the happiness that comes from adding value to the lives of others, whether it is by volunteering, performing deeds of kindness, or just being there for the people we love. 

Till next time... Do some good and feel the rush of happiness engulf you like magic!