The Happiness Paradox: Striking a Balance for Well-Being
Recently having read a few articles talking about the paradox of happiness, it strikes me that because expectations of happiness is relative to the environment, one cannot truly achieve happiness without first achieving inner calm and contentment.
The article in The Conversation (https://theconversation.com/research-finds-countries-that-focus-the-most-on-happiness-can-end-up-making-people-feel-worse-177323) highlights an intriguing trend: nations that place the greatest emphasis on happiness often exhibit higher levels of depression and anxiety. The underlying reason? The pressure to remain perpetually happy fosters unrealistic expectations, thus breeding dissatisfaction when those expectations fall short. This effect is particularly pronounced in societies where happiness is equated with success.
In considering our approach to happiness, it becomes evident that the standards we set for ourselves are frequently unattainable. Social media exacerbates this issue; we compare our lives to the curated images of our peers on Instagram, resulting in feelings of inadequacy. We may begin to question our worth, efforts, and the extent of our happiness—a heavy burden to bear.
Research corroborates this: individuals who fixate on achieving happiness are more susceptible to disappointment and frustration. The Journal of Positive Psychology reports that those intensely focused on happiness tend to experience greater discontentment when they fall short of their ideal. This can instigate a perpetual cycle of negative emotions and overall dissatisfaction with life.
Perhaps it's time to reconsider our definition of happiness. Instead of perceiving happiness as continuous euphoria, we might redefine it as a state of fulfillment and contentment. This perspective encourages focusing on relationships, health, and personal growth, rather than solely chasing fleeting moments of joy.
Moreover, happiness should not be misconceived as a constant state; it is a fluctuating emotion that ebbs and flows. Imagine living a life where contentment is derived not from unyielding happiness, but from finding peace in the natural oscillations of life. Appreciating life's ups and downs without self-reproach for perceived shortcomings could be liberating.
Ultimately, the pursuit of happiness is about finding balance. The aim should be to seek happiness without sacrificing mental well-being. It's crucial to accept that perpetual happiness is unattainable and that experiencing a spectrum of emotions is not only normal but necessary. By adopting a balanced approach to happiness, we can hopefully get to a more enduring and profound sense of well-being.
References:
Brock Bastian
Egon Dejonckheere