The Pursuit of Happiness

The pursuit of happiness is well ingrained in our national psyche, exemplified by that memorable phrase in our Declaration of Independence. And yet happiness can be elusive, and our economy can feed off perceptions of dissatisfaction. Marketers work to convince us that, if we purchase this or that toy or experience, we will be happier -- even as psychology teaches that this is rarely the case.

I recall some years back reading Happier: Learn the Secrets to Daily Joy and Lasting Fulfillment by Tal Ben-Shahar, based on his popular Harvard course. Ivy League students, like many of the rest of us, are taught to strive to achieve some future goal and, even if we are miserable in the present, we will eventually achieve prosperity and happiness. Ben-Shahar describes someone adopting this approach as a “rat racer” who, “once he reaches his destination and realizes that material prosperity does not make him happy, there is nothing to sustain him.” 

Instead, he argues, we should strive for a meaningful life with, “a self-generated purpose that possesses personal significance rather than one that is dictated by society's standards and expectations." Brené Brown observes: “I don’t have to chase extraordinary moments to find happiness—it’s right in front of me if I’m paying attention and practicing gratitude.” 

Happiness, at some basic level, needs to flow from within, and we cannot achieve it solely from external factors. At the same time, the actions of others can influence us in ways that make it easier to experience happiness in our lives and work.

Leaders (and coworkers, too!) who ensure connections and a sense of purpose can create a work climate that allows people to flourish, increasing employee satisfaction, retention, and productivity. Leaders who create a positive culture build companies that outperform others with happier, more productive employees.

I wrote more on this subject for an upcoming column in the New Hampshire Business Review and will share the link when published.

We each have an extraordinary opportunity to make a difference in people’s lives, including our own. Don’t underestimate your impact!