The holiday season is when many of us search our souls on the degree to which we’re happy with our lives. But is this the right question to be asking?
We all want to feel as happy as possible, but given the volatile conditions in which we live, it’s exhausting and unproductive to pursue perpetual happiness as an end in itself. Here’s why, along with an alternative for a better outcome.
As we’re more connected than ever before and living in a 24/7 news cycle, we’re bombarded with information. If pursuing happiness is your main focus, you’re more vulnerable to the emotional roller coaster that comes with learning about tragedies, difficult political situations, and other bad news.
This is especially true in business. Both of us have heard too many stories from talented people who were on an endless search. They told us that their reason for frequent job changes was to “be happier.” However with the volatile, uncertain, ambiguous and complex conditions that are now the norm across industries and companies, even the best places to work can’t guarantee that everyone will be perpetually happy.
For a better outcome, change the question. Ask yourself, “Am I living a meaningful life that contributes value to others as well as to me?” This expanded focus of purpose provides a perspective that is both stabilizing and nourishing to the soul – regardless of the circumstances.
When you reframe your situation and focus on living into a meaningful purpose, you’ll be able to bounce back higher from adversity, and in the process discover hidden sources of joy.
