The Happiness Paradox | The More You Pursue, the Further It Gets.

Why Happiness Is Simpler Than We Think
Happiness is one of the most coveted aspects of human life. However, in the pursuit of happiness, we often find ourselves trapped in misguided mindsets and unrealistic expectations. In this piece, we will explore the story of a happiness seeker who experienced limitations in life and how she discovered the true meaning of happiness. Furthermore, we will delve into the phenomenon known as "The Happiness Paradox" and why ceasing to compare oneself with others is the key to genuine happiness.

A Seeker's Journey in Limitation
In the past two years, an individual's life has been riddled with challenges. She lost her father, which dramatically altered her family dynamics. As the eldest of three siblings, she should have been pursuing her higher education at this point. However, reality forced her to postpone her plans because her younger sibling still had to attend school, and her mother's income was insufficient to support them all. This was a difficult situation for a young woman who had to work while assisting her mother with various household chores.

She felt an overwhelming pressure and anxiety, often feeling like the sole female caretaker in her family. While her peers enjoyed college life and engaged in various campus activities, she had to work at a minimarket to help her family. Nevertheless, within her limitations, she tried to seek happiness. She bought things she liked, such as new clothes and bags, which momentarily made her feel better. However, the feeling of joy was short-lived as her money quickly ran out. She also attempted to fill her leisure time by engaging in social media but often found herself envious of others' seemingly more beautiful lives.

The Happiness Paradox: When Happiness Becomes an Illusion
This narrative exemplifies the phenomenon known as "The Happiness Paradox." Many individuals spend their time chasing happiness through various means, such as equating happiness with wealth, success, power, or having it all. However, they often find themselves trapped in this vicious cycle, constantly pursuing something seemingly out of reach. The result is frustration, exhaustion, and unending anxiety.

The events around us, such as the story of a well-paid consultant who felt a lack of purpose in his life, remind us that true happiness often cannot be measured by material possessions or social status. Pursuing happiness as the primary goal can lead to suffering because it fixates on unhappiness in the present moment.

Stop Comparing: The Key to True Happiness
One crucial step towards genuine happiness is to cease comparing oneself with others. Frequently, we observe portrayals of others' happiness on social media or in everyday life, creating unrealistic standards. Each individual has their unique journey towards happiness, and no one is perfect.

When we stop comparing ourselves to others, we can begin to appreciate what we already have in our lives. Even within limitations and difficulties, there is potential to discover the true essence of happiness. As Markus Aurelius once said, "Happiness is an effect that arises from various actions." When we stop chasing happiness as the primary objective, we can stumble upon happiness unintentionally in small moments and the meaning we give to life experiences.

Embrace Happiness Within Your Limits
Accepting that life is not always perfect and that we do not always feel happy is the first step toward genuine happiness. When we stop comparing ourselves to others and appreciate what we have, we can find happiness within limitations and challenges. Happiness is simpler than we often believe; it is a result of how we perceive the world and the meaning we attach to each life experience.