Written by: Abbey Riendeau, LMHC
There are not many statements that can be applied to all human beings, but I think it may be safe to say that all human beings have the common goal of finding happiness. After all, one could argue that the desire for happiness drives many of our behaviors.
Although happiness may seem simple on the surface, it is really a complex subject. The complexity in defining happiness impacts the scientific research on the topic. When looking to assess levels of happiness, there are many different ways to conceptualize setting up the research question. Do you ask about current feelings of happiness? What about contentment with life and past experiences? You could compare levels of happiness with levels of pain. What about happiness in regards to having a higher meaning for life? Is happiness based on reaching full potential? Is it a byproduct of attaining other goals or is happiness the goal? Is it helpful to strive for happiness? There are so many unanswered questions and the differing viewpoints of what happiness is and how it can be measured continues to be an issue in ongoing happiness research.
What is happiness to you? What does it mean to you and how would you define it? The Oxford dictionary defines ‘happy’ as the state of feeling or showing pleasure or contentment. This definition explains that happiness is not a trait but rather a state of being. It is not a long-lasting, permanent feature or personality trait but rather a changeable and fleeting state of being. The definition also compares happiness to contentment or pleasure. It’s important to make a distinction between happiness and more intense emotions such as joy, bliss, or ecstasy. Lastly, happiness can be an experience of expression outwardly or of feeling internally. In other words, it can be experienced internally or externally, or both! This definition provides us with a good understanding of happiness, however, there is an ongoing debate about a universal definition.
Happiness vs. Pleasure
Although pleasure was used to define happiness above, many argue that there is a distinction between pleasure and happiness. Happiness refers to contentment or satisfaction with life or current experience, but pleasure refers to a more visceral or sensory-based experience. Pleasure refers to the in-the-moment experience, such as eating good food, receiving a massage, or having sex. Although we discussed above how happiness is a fleeting state, it is often longer lasting than pleasure. Pleasure is typically only experienced during the pleasurable situation, but happiness generally sticks around longer. Happiness can impact pleasure and pleasure can impact happiness, or the two states can be experienced completely separately.
I imagine you want to know the answer to the ultimate question, right? – What will bring me a happy life? Or what will help me feel generally content? Where do I find happiness? – First, the answer for each of the above questions and any other question you can think of about achieving happiness, can only be determined by you. You are the expert on you. How one person achieves their happiness or contentment will be different from another.
There are many knowledgeable individuals who can provide more eloquent answers to finding happiness. For example, Ed Mylett, an entrepreneur, author, and podcaster, has multiple videos on happiness, each a little different. For example, his June 1, 2022 video titled ‘The Secret to How to Achieve True Happiness’ discusses factors that contribute to happiness or unhappiness. Specifically, he discusses how comparison can create unhappiness or be used productively and therefore creating happiness. Ed Mylett also often brings on guests to talk about their areas of expertise, and the subject of happiness is often discussed. On July 18, 2023, he interviews a 102-year-old doctor who discusses her secrets to happiness and health. Additionally, Jay Shetty, a former monk, author, life coach, and podcaster, also tackles the topic of happiness. On December 14, 2020, he shared what he considers to be the secret to living a happy life. I won’t spoil the secret for you here so you can listen for yourself! These are just a few examples; there are many more individuals who can provide their view on happiness.
What does happiness mean to you? How do you achieve happiness or contentment? What did you think of this post? Let us know in the comments!
Happiness and contentment are feelings we all want to achieve! If you feel like you are struggling to find happiness or are experiencing hopelessness, please know you are not alone and reach out for help. Our therapists at Forensic Insight Group are here to support you and help you find assistance. Contact us today to learn more about current therapy groups or to schedule a free fifteen-minute consultation regarding individual therapy or other services.
Citation:
MA, C. E. A. (2019, February 16). What Is Happiness and Why Is It Important? (+ Definition). PositivePsychology.com. https://positivepsychology.com/what-is-happiness/