Scott Perry argues happiness isn't something to chase directly. Instead, it emerges as a side effect of meaningful pursuits. He suggests journaling about where chasing more harms you, then aligning your actions with your actual values.
Why does the pursuit of happiness create so much misery? Because happiness isn't a place. It can't be pursued. Pursuing happiness is fruitless and can only result in frustration and emptiness. So does happiness matter? Of course. But we need to understand what it is and what it means. Happiness is actually a naturally occurring side effect of worthwhile pursuits. Happiness simply happens when you connect, collaborate, and create with integrity and intention for its own sake and the sake of others. Happiness then signals that we are finding fulfillment and forging meaning from our life situation and even suffering. What if just for today you let go of the empty pursuit of happiness and instead let it ensue from doing something that aligns with who you really are, what you're really good at, and where you really belong? This unpursuit of happiness cultivates something even more powerful: joy. Happiness is usually associated with delight, surprise, and pleasure. It's typically singular and selfish. Happiness is a victory or an accomplishment associated with having good luck or good fortune shine upon you. Joy is more sustainable, especially when shared with those you care about. Joy is a journey that encourages awe, wonder, gratitude, and generosity. How might the unpursuit of happiness invite more joy into your life? You need to understand that more doesn't get you closer. Make a list of where the undisciplined pursuit of more is actually getting you further rather than closer to what you really want. What's your plan for avoiding chasing more going forward so you can focus on closing the gap between where you are and where you want to be? Take time to journal or discuss your work and be sure to apply your takeaways.
Stoics Don't Suppress Emotions, They Do This Instead #stoicism #emotionalintelligence #mindset
