Redefining Happiness

In today’s fast-paced world, happiness is often tied to external achievements—landing that dream job, buying the perfect house, or reaching financial milestones. But is that enough to feel truly fulfilled? Through my own experiences, I’ve come to realize that material success doesn't guarantee happiness, and in fact, chasing it can lead to feelings of distress and dissatisfaction.

1. The Pursuit of Material Success is Never-Ending

It’s easy to fall into the trap of believing that achieving certain milestones will bring lasting happiness. But I’ve learned that material success is a never-ending pursuit. Even when we reach a goal, there’s always a higher target, leaving us feeling unsatisfied. This constant chase can spill over into other areas of life, disturbing our peace of mind and causing stress.

2. Rediscovering Joy in the Process

What truly brings me joy is engaging in activities that connect me to myself. I’ve found immense fulfillment in creative pursuits like painting, sculpture, pottery, and crafts. Whether it's reading, learning something new, or traveling, these activities have allowed me to find happiness in the process, rather than fixating on the end result. Art, in particular, has become my outlet for personal growth and relaxation.

3. Society’s Pressure vs. Personal Clarity

Of course, societal expectations can make it difficult to redefine happiness. There’s always pressure to achieve more, be "successful," and live a stable life. But I’ve come to a point where I no longer let these pressures affect me as much. Over time, I’ve gained clarity about what truly makes me happy. It’s not about fitting into society’s idea of success but following what feels right for me.

4. Valuable Lessons From Books and Life

Two books that helped shift my mindset are The Subtle Art of Not Giving a Fck* and Manifest. The former taught me the importance of not wasting energy on things that don’t matter in the long run. The latter empowered me by showing that confidence and self-belief can shape your reality. These lessons have given me the tools to focus on inner happiness, rather than draining myself in pursuit of external validation.