What Happiness Really Means

I notice society seems to be promoting Happiness like it is the most important thing. But what does happiness really mean?

I notice with any human we are all happy when we get our way, no matter who we stepped on or hurt along the path to get there. We got our way and that is all that matters and now we are happy. Sounds like a spoiled brat really. And we all know spoiled brats are not happy. Sure maybe they are for the moment, but then there will be another opportunity where they will pitch a fit to get their way and be happy for another moment to only…

I have also noticed adults who pursue life to only be happy. It’s interesting as it appears they are not really. They want happiness so bad they are sacrificing important things in order to pursue it. Perhaps looking only for that ideal job or house or spouse or (sadly) children only to pass up and miss out on opportunities.

Instead of looking for the perfect opportunities to make us happy, we may need to lower our standards and just be content with what we have and what is within our reach.

When I purchased my house to live in I did not purchase a house to make me happy. I purchased one that I could afford, that was practical and one that I could make a home. It’s not the prettiest house and it’s not a big house, but its home and I’m happy with it. It keeps me warm on the cold winter nights, I am able to raise a family here and it has given me other opportunities as well. But I did not buy a house to make me happy but the result ended up as that.

When I started my job I did not start in the position I have today. I started in another position. It took 2.5 years before I entered into the job I have today and I like it there. I could have missed that opportunity had I not been able to see I was just starting out and that would have been a real shame. I’m happy with where I am today in my career, but again I did not pursue only happiness to get there and yet I’m happy.

I realize life is more than a house and a career, but I also realize it’s more than just pursing happiness for the sake of being happy. When someone wants me to be happy only, I realize that is only a portion of the equation. The majority of it is contentment. For once I have contentment in any and all situations, happiness is the by product.