Forget About Being Happy

Happiness is a lousy goal. It is a shifting bullseye, vanishing the moment we appear to hit it.

Forget about being happy. There are much better ways to spend your limited time than chasing the wind.

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We are so absorbed in our “pursuit of happiness” syndrome to enjoy life. We think this product will not only solve our problems, but it will also make us happy.

Why can’t it just be a toaster? Why does the perfectly good toaster also have to bring you happiness?

Sheesh.

Maybe a new job will make you happy. Yes, changing scenery can help, but unless it is intentional it is just moving sideways. There is no lasting happiness there either.

Here’s a better idea. When was the last time you took a walk in the rain? We talk ourselves out of it because we will get wet or our hair will be a mess.

But it’s a wonderful feeling we miss out on because we are too busy looking for something to make us happy.

Our loss.

Better goals are loving, serving, and spending time with others. Learning a language. Reading a good book. Taking a nap on the porch once a week. Inviting over a friend for a meaningful talk. Watching the sunset instead of television. Stretching a whole bunch, just as my baby girl does when she wakes up. Writing a letter — remember those?

If only we’d stop trying to be happy, we could have a pretty good time.
– Edith Wharton

Forget happiness.


Name one worthwhile goal. Or, comment about being happy.