January 23, 2024

WANT MORE ON THIS TOPIC? Check out this article: “If You Want Success, Pursue Happiness” (Brooks, 2022)

I know, I know, I’m dating myself with this reference. Then again, I’ll assume many on this page are old enough to remember the ‘ol “Beef. It’s What’s for Dinner” campaign ; )? If not, then your youth precedes my corniness!

Lately, I’ve noticed a lot of contention around the word “happiness” or even the word “happy.”

Call it my version of a “frequency illusion” since I recently decided to pursue a master’s degree in Happiness Studies. You know, the old “I drive a red car, so now I’m noticing red cars everywhere” type of thing.

Here’s what I’ve noticed. For some, it seems happiness isn’t enough – instead, words like “bliss,” “joy,” “manifestation,” or “infinite possibility” are preferred. I even recently heard someone refer to those choosing happiness as “living in a happiness fractal” ; )! As if the pursuit of one’s well-being is somehow inadequate? I must say, this statement made me laugh… quite happily!

The irony. Isn’t one’s attempt to break free of their meager “fractal” of imperfect human perception also an effort to be happy? Come on now, people, aren’t we ALL just human?

Here’s the thing – while “happiness” means different things to many people and cultures, it seems we are all seeking some version of it, whether we want to admit it or not.

Whether seeking to take our businesses to the next level, grow “abundant wealth,” "be healthier," "learn new things," "download universal codes,” or "howl at the moon," it seems we are all seeking some version of “happiness.” Even partaking in activities that are knowingly bad for us, like overeating, drinking, or using harmful drugs, are all still attempts toward short-term happiness.

Our favorite superlatives like “peace,” “joy,” “contentment,” “bliss,” “ecstasy,” or “divine manifestation” all still seem to have one thing in common– they describe what we think it’ll take to be happy.

Naturally, some pursuits have longer-term benefits to the well-being of individuals, organizations, and societies than others. Several studies show that seeking pleasure and success over well-being (yes, happiness) leads to long-term discontent (see article link at the top of this page).

Of course, it’s up to each of us to decide if we want to like the word “happy” or not. Even righteousness serves a purpose in our “happiness fractal” ; ). Aristotle said long ago, “The life of the man who is active in accordance with virtue will be happy.”

So, rather than dismiss happiness altogether, maybe we could ask ourselves… “which virtues do I see as building happier lives, organizations, communities, and societies? And, better yet, how can I contribute to them?”

PAVE ON!

Nina Cashman