In-Direct Pursuit of Happiness
"The process of delving into the black abyss is to me the keenest form of fascination." - H.P. Lovecraft
Rest is good, but if we sat at the beach forever, we’d eventually become bored.
We might find meaning in our careers, but overworking exhausts us.
Exercise is good for the body and mind, but too much exercise injures us.
Happiness will always be fleeting because our needs change over time.
A question I like to ask myself is:
“What do you need right now, Jonathan?"
Regularly assessing my current state and needs—based on self-awareness rather than past solutions or others' opinions—is crucial for finding fleeting moments of fulfillment amid chaos.
"Do whatever brings you to life, then. Follow your own fascinations, obsessions, and compulsions. Trust them. Create whatever causes a revolution in your heart." - Elizabeth Gilbert
Happiness seems to be less of a place and more of a moving target.
Nothing brings true fulfillment forever because our needs constantly shift based on mindset, circumstances, and priorities.
Happiness defies permanence.
Existence often feels like a juggling act, trying to find that sweet spot of feeling challenged but not overwhelmed, busy but not depleted, relaxed but not stagnant. Instead, I've found that chasing what fascinates me brings immense joy.
I’ve learned instead of chasing some outdated, generic idea of 'happiness,' it is wiser to become curious about myself.
And this I believe: that the free, exploring mind of the individual human is the most valuable thing in the world.
-John Steinback; East of Eden
Perhaps paradise is found by looking for it indirectly.
Delve into the abyss
Create whatever causes a revolution in your heart
Chase Fascination
- Jonathan the Beach Dweller