In the pursuit of happiness, renowned social scientist Arthur C. Brooks, author of “The Happiness Project,” unveils the key to lasting contentment: not chasing happiness but striving for “happierness.”
The Macronutrients of Happiness
Like a balanced diet, happiness requires a blend of three essential nutrients:
- Enjoyment: Savor the pleasure of life’s moments, but complement them with human connection and memories.
- Satisfaction: Embrace the challenges and struggles that make rewards truly meaningful.
- Purpose: Discover the deeper meaning in your existence and drive towards your unique goals.
Enjoyment: The Art of Embellishing Pleasure
Contrary to popular belief, enjoyment is more than just seeking pleasurable experiences. Brooks emphasizes the importance of adding people and memories to your indulgences:
- Socialize with loved ones over drinks or share laughs over videos.
- Indulge in solitary pleasures like reading or meditating, but create shared experiences for social connection.
- Transform momentary joys into lasting happiness by capturing them with others.
Satisfaction: The Joy of Earning Your Rewards
Satisfaction stems from the fulfillment gained through hard work and perseverance. As Brooks states:
“We need to struggle… We need pain in our lives, because that’s actually how we earn something.”
Like the savory taste of a meal after an intense hunger, the value of our achievements increases when we invest our efforts into them.
Purpose: Finding the Meaning in Your Journey
Purpose gives life a sense of direction and significance. It encompasses three sub-components:
- Coherence: Understanding the interconnectedness of events.
- Direction: Setting goals and pursuing them with determination.
- Significance: Embracing your unique contribution to the world.
There are no definitive answers to these questions, but confronting them is crucial. As Brooks explains:
“It takes a lot of work” to find your purpose, but it’s really important to think about it and have a sense of direction.”
Embracing the Path to Happierness
True happiness is not a static destination but a perpetual journey of striving for “happierness.” By nurturing the macronutrients of enjoyment, satisfaction, and purpose, we unlock the potential for lasting contentment.
Data sourced from: cnbc.com
