Chasing unhappiness

“Happiness isn’t a hunt for something out there; it’s a long process of internal discovery.” - Justin Kan

I came across a podcast episode today that very succinctly explains why a “pursuit of happiness” doesn’t make sense. The problem is in the mistaken verb pursuit. Happiness is not something we chase out in the world; it’s something we discover by finding contentment from within.

I’ve published several posts on this blog about happiness. I’ve stated some things that seem to be against conventional wisdom, so I think that sharing this story from Justin Kan can strengthen in readers’ mind the fact that what I’ve been saying has been repeated in many places - sometimes by prominent figures.

Recently, I've been slowly reading through The Conquest of Happiness at the recommendation of a friend. Russell’s discussion of the typical successful man is particularly memorable. He describes such a man, with a charming family, waking up in the early morning while they’re still asleep, hurrying to the office. He works till noon when he has lunch with someone for business purposes, works more in the afternoon and early evening, and arrives home late, possibly when his children have already gone to sleep, and escapes himself to bed for those few hours when the tension is relaxed.

Russell likens this man’s life to a repeated hundred-yard race, where the only goal is the grave.

I recently asked a good friend, who by all measures is quite successful, about what motivates him to keep working so hard. He gave two specific reasons, and the second was interesting: he has a desire to be recognized by those around him, who have worked with him or studied with him in the past, as being someone who has continued to reach greater heights professionally.

To each his own, and I can understand his goal. At the same time, I feel it’s the very definition of the hedonic treadmill - continually sprinting forward, and yet remaining in one place.

Of course, it's not my place to change anyone. Though if you thought to ask me for advice on how to be happy, I'd say a few simple words.

Stop looking to outside factors. Instead, look within. Don't pursue. Discover.