The pursuit of happiness is a goal shared by many individuals around the world. However, it’s not always easy to attain in our busy, hectic lives. Let’s look at whether we should look for happiness or trust that it will find us.
Looking for happiness
Looking for happiness is a natural human desire. Being happy is so much more enjoyable than being sad. There are many ways to look for happiness. Finding a romantic partner brings so much joy to your everyday life and makes it more meaningful. Similarly, getting a promotion at work is thrilling and sure to bring about happiness. These things are directly under your control. People who are invested in happiness will work hard and let nothing stand in their way. This is the basis of motivation and a relentless pursuit to become the greatest. Looking for happiness requires a strong work ethic and a belief to never give up. If it doesn’t work out at first, you should try different approaches until something results in bliss. This timeframe can range anywhere from one week to one year.
Letting happiness find you
Source: ShutterstockOn the other side of the coin, you can let happiness naturally find you. At first glance, this can seem like a huge risk to take. What if happiness never arrives? However, this is a risk that can be worth the odds. With patience, you can continue your current lifestyle and await happiness. It will eventually come as you become successful at your job or learn more about the world around you. Happiness might even appear in a different form than you ever expected. A pet or a winning lottery ticket can be your source of happiness that you would never have anticipated a few months ago. Having this sort of trust takes mental fortitude, but can pay dividends if you are patient.
How to find happiness
Source: ShutterstockRegardless of which of these options you choose, it’s important to somehow find happiness in the first place. Above all, you need to have an open mind. It’s easily possible to chase a certain goal and become so preoccupied with this that you forget about the big picture. Take a step back and think about what really makes you happy. Maybe spending time with your grandchildren is a huge source of joy in your life. Maybe eating your favorite dessert on the weekend is something you always look forward to. Then, you’ll want to center your actions around these things. Spend the evening at their orchestral concert. Buy gift cards for that restaurant. While it’s not recommended to force yourself into happiness, leaning toward these activities is easy to do.
Happiness is complex
Source: ShutterstockHappiness is just one of many emotions. As a wise man once said, it’s impossible to experience happiness if you have never experienced sadness. Happiness is an emotion that is more complex than a lot of people give credit for. Happiness might just seem like a state of bliss that is the light at the end of the tunnel. However, it’s not all about the end state. The journey to happiness is often the most fulfilling part of the whole process. It’s essential not to overlook the journey and embrace while you still can.
Balancing all the above
Source: ShutterstockThe bottom line is, it’s essential to find a balance between all of the above. Focusing exclusively on looking for happiness or solely on letting it find us is a very narrow-minded approach. The most effective philosophers often land on something in the middle. It’s crucial to pursue the hobbies and passions that you enjoy in life and find success on your own. This rewarding and a product of hard work. At the same time, don’t be afraid to take a step back and let things fall into place. Everyone has their own trajectories in life, and yours might not be entirely determined yet. Forcing yourself into one future isn’t wise. As you think about these principles, feel free to discuss them with others. Your friends and family will likely have unique thoughts on happiness and where they are on the spectrum.
In conclusion, it’s an everlasting question of whether we should look for happiness or trust that it will find us. On the one hand, it’s important to seek happiness and find meaningful things to do in your life. On the other hand, it’s not a bad idea to take a step back and let happiness manifest itself naturally.
