How can I find lasting happiness?
How can I find lasting happiness? There have been many times in my life when I have been so happy that I thought it would last forever. I remember a previous boss of mine describing me as “the happiest person alive” when a got a promotion to my dream job. I was as confused as the next person when this feeling didn’t last.
It has led me to wonder what exactly causes happiness, and what is the best way to find happiness that truly lasts.
What is happiness?
Happiness is a feeling. It can probably best be described as the feeling of pleasure or contentment. Many of us experience these feelings on a regular basis, but they can sometimes be quite fleeting. I am on the lookout for a way to make my happiness a little more permanent.
Meaning
One of the most powerful ways to improve our levels of happiness is to ensure we have meaning in our lives. By meaning, I simply mean having a purpose in life.
Relationships
In general, people are happier when they have a network of friends and family. The research seems to show that relationships are more important than achievements when it comes to meaning. As a result, they tend to make people happier.
Seeking happiness
Pursuing happiness for its own sake is a pointless exercise. As I have found out, the pleasure gained from possessions and achievements is short lived. Nothing external can truly make us happy.
The happiness that comes from relationships with those we care about is deeper, and clearly more long-lasting.
But the most effective type of happiness is experienced when we have a purpose that we are focused on. Being engaged in the pursuit of our passion will lead us to the long-lasting happiness that we are all seeking.
Project 365
I set up this website after deciding that I want to build a more creative life for myself, so I can give up my job and be in control of my own destiny.
I have set myself a goal of publishing an article on my website every day this year, to document my journey from employment to self-employment.
The name I chose was Project 365 because I see this as a year that I have dedicated to learning and self-development, as I countdown to freedom. It started on 1st January 2021, so I have 337 days to go!
Why not check in on a regular basis to see how I am progressing, and what I have discovered?
I have decided to set up a blog, and to document my adventures in life through it.