The Flawed Pursuit of Happiness: A Different Approach

Humans are poor predictors of what will make them happy. We often assume that if a certain thing is done or obtained, then contentment will follow. Yet, time and time again, you arrive at that moment only to realize that the happiness expected does not exist or that it quickly flees. Making your happiness conditional never works.

You are much better at knowing what will make you sad or unhappy. Think for a moment, and all the things you know will make you discontent can consume your thoughts without effort.

Why not start from this side of the equation? Consider your future state in which all these things that make you discontented are absent. Now, create your path forward of what you do NOT want present and see the path come into focus. Do not dismiss the things you believe will bring you joy, rather recognize your ability to predict them with certainty.

Backing into this vision provides you with an alternative lens built upon what you are far better at predicting. Instead of beginning with what may (or may not) bring you fleeting happiness, attempt to start with eliminating what you know will bring discontentment. Build from there.