Contentment: The Key to Lifelong Happiness
Contentment is an attitude towards life, and happiness is a psychological state. Being content means finding satisfaction in what you have, fostering a sense of happiness at all times. This is a positive approach to life and a wise life philosophy. Life's happiness isn't dependent on wealth but on whether you're content. It's often said that those living in confusion are easily pleased, while those who seek clarity are easily troubled. However, only those who understand how to be content can find true happiness.
Life is transient, marked by successes and failures. Everyone has distinct definitions and requirements for happiness, and those who understand contentment are more likely to find happiness. A contented person is more inclined to experience happiness. Happiness isn't about how much you possess, but how much you appreciate. Those who embrace happiness tend to cherish what they have. Hence, cultivating a contented heart is essential.
So, what is the state of happiness, or what does happiness look like? This question may be challenging to answer clearly. However, it's important to acknowledge that happiness is subjective. One person's happiness may be imperceptible to others, only discernible through expressions and behaviors. What brings happiness to one person may not be the same for another. In short, happiness varies from person to person and situation to situation. Happiness is primarily psychological satisfaction.
The pursuit of happiness is a fundamental part of human nature. Who wouldn't want a happier life? Some may argue that life is painful, so where is the happiness? It's precisely because life is replete with hardships that the pursuit of happiness becomes our aspiration! What's the ultimate purpose of human life? In essence, it's the quest for "happiness". A successful career, wealth, self-actualization - all of these are sought for the ultimate purpose of happiness. Happiness acts as a lubricant, smoothening our life's journey. Without it, the road ahead seems challenging. Life is fleeting, so why not choose happiness?
The opposite of happiness is pain. Where does pain originate? People innately pursue happiness, and various desires emerge from birth. When these desires aren't met, when there's a gap between ideal and reality, pain surfaces. Pain is omnipresent, tormenting us like a demon, attempting to make us succumb. The more we suffer, the more we desperately seek happiness. However, when new happiness is found, new pain emerges. Pain seems endless, as human desire is endless. So, should we cease pursuing happiness? No, happiness can be pursued. Though human desire is boundless, being content allows us to maintain happiness.
Being content doesn't imply giving up progress or settling for the status quo. We should strive for betterment while cultivating contentment. Lifelong happiness is a state of mind. Only with tranquillity can we discern our goals and directions, effectively fulfilling our dreams and desires. Being content and maintaining happiness is a positive assessment and proactive engagement in life.
Life is filled with less-than-ideal circumstances, and we should accept these calmly rather than complain. A person's true wealth lies not in their possessions but in their ability to restrain their desires. If you can't feel satisfied with what you currently have, even owning the world wouldn't bring you happiness.