Chapter 1: Understanding True Happiness

What does true happiness really mean? Many individuals grapple with severe challenges, such as financial hardship, chronic health issues, or the loss of loved ones. However, a closer look reveals that many of us may be in better circumstances than we realize.

In 2021, the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) reported that approximately 828 million individuals worldwide faced hunger. If we can enjoy three meals a day, we are indeed more fortunate than 10% of the global population.

Moreover, UNICEF and WHO indicated that one in three individuals lacks access to safe drinking water. If we have clean water for our daily needs, we are in a better position than 2.2 billion people globally.

Additionally, UN-Habitat highlights that roughly 1.6 billion individuals live in inadequate housing. If we have a secure and suitable home, we are better off than 20% of the world's inhabitants.

So, why do we frequently feel discontented with our lives? The answer lies in two main factors: we often believe that life should always be filled with happiness, and we measure our lives against the standards of others.

However, it’s essential to generalize this perspective. Life inherently comes with its challenges and can appear unfair when compared to others’ experiences. The key to contentment is to embrace life as it comes.

In Paulo Coelho's renowned novel, The Alchemist, a young man embarks on a quest to uncover the secret of true happiness. His journey leads him to a wise sage residing in a magnificent castle on a mountain.

Upon arrival, the young man is greeted by stunning views, exquisite carvings, flourishing gardens, and sumptuous feasts laid out on tables. Eager to learn the secret of happiness, he poses the question to the sage.

Instead of providing a straightforward answer, the sage assigns him a task: to carry a spoon filled with oil while touring the castle, ensuring not to spill any.

As he walks around, the young man becomes so focused on the oil that he fails to notice the beauty surrounding him. When he returns to the sage, he is struck by his lack of awareness.

The sage then instructs him to try again, this time allowing himself to appreciate the castle's splendor. As he takes in the artistry and elegance, he becomes enthralled by his surroundings, only to return and realize he has spilled the oil.

With a gentle smile, the sage explains that true happiness lies in recognizing the beauty around us while remaining mindful of our responsibilities, represented by the oil in the spoon.

This story illustrates the importance of balance in life. It teaches us that focusing excessively on one aspect can hinder our overall happiness. However, it can also be understood as a metaphor for our pursuit of life goals.

If you were in the young man’s shoes, how would you savor the castle's beauty while ensuring the oil remains intact?

I would take my time or pause occasionally, allowing myself to fulfill my responsibilities while also enjoying the surrounding beauty. This approach emphasizes living at a natural pace.

Often, people rush through life, constantly comparing themselves to others. Yet, everyone has their own speed and starting point.

What are the consequences of this rush? We may struggle to manage our responsibilities and miss out on life’s joys. We might feel a sense of pride in our accomplishments, yet experience an underlying emptiness.

Ultimately, each person has their own path, responsibilities, and blessings in life. There's no need to compare our experiences with others to understand why life may feel unjust.

It's evident that genuine happiness doesn't stem from being joyful all the time but from achieving a balanced existence.

If you find your life challenging, it doesn't mean something is inherently wrong; it’s simply part of the journey. Life includes both happiness and demanding challenges.

Thus, the most fulfilling way to live is to accept both the ups and downs.

Thanks for taking the time to read this. If you appreciate this perspective, consider joining my self-improvement journey, Whisper of Silence.

Explore how to find true happiness in life with these five proven strategies in the video above.

Learn about the essence of true happiness in this easy-to-understand video.