Pursue Fulfillment, not Happiness

Having everything handed to you might be far more convenient, but lasting joy cannot be found without challenge.

Good morning!

What if our happiest moments came from our biggest challenges?

When it comes to short-term happiness, we can typically judge what an objectively good or objectively bad event is; getting a birthday present you like, for example, is an objectively good event that can definitely cause happiness.

However, have you ever noticed that this form of happiness is fleeting?

In my experience — and yours may differ — I believe there’s a lot more lasting joy in overcoming difficulties. When you muster all your courage and faith and confidence and step way outside your comfort zone, even if you fail, just the mere fact that you challenged yourself might contain far more joy than receiving a great gift.

Now, I know we’ve all heard about the pursuit of happiness, but this morning I want to propose the idea that the way to happiness is not to seek it; rather, we should allow happiness to simply be a naturally occurring byproduct of our pursuit of fulfillment.

In the novel I’ve been writing, you’ll find that the trust fund baby who’s never had to work a day in his life is far more miserable than all those around him, because fulfillment is a far better goal and virtue than empty success.

I mean, think about it: if everything you are proud of was simply handed to you on a silver platter without you having to work and struggle for any of it, would it still bring you joy? Would that diploma mean anything if it didn’t remind you of the late nights, endless study sessions, or last-minute cramming efforts? Would that sports trophy be anything to be proud of if you didn’t have to earn it?

If fulfillment had no impact on our happiness, we could all just custom-order our own trophies and live happily ever after, but I don’t think that’s any way to live life.

Embrace the challenge. Fall in love with the grind. Recognize that overcoming obstacles is ultimately what will bring far more lasting joy and happiness.

God bless you, have a great day! (P.S. Please let me know how I could best partner with you in prayer, I would love to pray for you.)

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