June 30, 2010
When you find pleasure in the pursuit of your dream, you win a happy life whether you reach your dream or not.
This July 4, people in the US celebrate the Declaration of Independence which states that all people have the inalienable right to life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness. Despite this independence day holiday,Americans are less happy than they were 50 years ago, despite higher average income, education, and longer life. Many have speculated on the reasons behind this paradox. In my own life, I have found that I am less happy when I focus on achieving happiness and more happy when I enjoy the pursuit.
Tal Ben Shahar, in his book Happier, talks about the importance of balancing purpose and pleasure for a happy life. It is true that both purpose and pleasure lead to happiness, and it seems we must take both paths in balance to get there.
If you are looking for ways to put more pleasure in your pursuit, start with an attitude of gratitude. After all, what good is pleasure in your life if you do not take the time to notice or appreciate it. Sometimes, when I am feeling a little apathetic, I start a pleasure list- a list of all the sensations or thoughts I pleasure I experience that day.
Sometimes, in order to regain your enthusiasm, all you have to do is let go of trying so hard. Remember, --
When you find pleasure in the pursuit of your dream, you win a happy life whether you reach your dream or not.
Affirmation
I make sure I have pleasure and purpose in my life everyday. I take time to enjoy the pleasures of my life.
Journal or Meditation Question
Where have I become so focused on the goal that I have lost sight of the pleasure of the day to day pursuit? How could I enjoy the journey more? How can I put pleasure back in my day to day life?
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