In today's world, the constant pursuit of happiness has become a widely accepted ideal. We are told over and over again that happiness is the ultimate goal, the state we should all aspire to. However, is it really possible to be happy in all circumstances and at all times? Is it realistic to think that happiness is a permanent state that we can reach and stay there forever? In this article, we will explore why the idea of being happy always is utopian and unattainable, even in places as diverse as here, in the comfort of our home, or in remote places like Alaska.
The relentless pursuit of happiness
Modern society tells us that happiness is the ultimate goal of life. We are bombarded with messages that urge us to pursue happiness at all costs, as if it were something that can be achieved permanently if we follow the right instructions. However, this idea that happiness is a constant state and attainable at all times is largely an illusion. The reality is that happiness is a transitory emotional state, which comes and goes depending on the circumstances, experiences and perceptions of each individual.
Psychological studies have shown that happiness is not a static state, but rather a dynamic process that fluctuates over time. People experience a variety of emotions, both positive and negative, throughout their lives, and to try to remain in a state of perpetual bliss is to go against the very nature of the human experience. Sadness, anger, frustration, fear, are emotions that are equally valid and necessary for a person's mental and emotional health.
The fallacy of the "here and now"
In the search for happiness, we are told over and over again that the secret is to live in the "here and now", in the immediate present. They tell us that if we learn to focus on the present moment, we will be able to experience happiness permanently. However, this notion that happiness is found exclusively in the present is misleading.
While it is true that the practice of mindfulness and present moment awareness can bring emotional benefits, we cannot ignore the fact that we are beings that live in time. Our past, our past experiences, our memories and our relationships with others are fundamental aspects of our identity and our perception of the world. To pretend that we can completely detach ourselves from our past and our future concerns for the sake of present happiness is to ignore the complexity of the human experience.
The influence of external factors
Another aspect What to consider is the influence that external factors have on our ability to experience happiness. Our environment, our socioeconomic circumstances, our interpersonal relationships, all these elements influence our perception of happiness and our ability to experience it fully and satisfactorily.
For example, a person who lives in an environment conflictive, without sufficient financial resources to cover their basic needs, they are less likely to experience a state of constant happiness than someone who lives in a stable and prosperous environment. Likewise, toxic or conflictive interpersonal relationships can undermine our emotional well-being and hinder our ability to experience happiness authentically.
The paradox of choice
In today's society , we are constantly bombarded with infinite options and possibilities. The idea that we can have it all and that we can choose happiness on demand leads us to a state of chronic dissatisfaction. The more options we have, the more difficult it becomes to make decisions and the more likely we are to feel disappointed for not achieving an idealized, utopian level of happiness.
The paradox of choice, described by psychologist Barry Schwartz, suggests that an abundance of choices leads us to feel overwhelmed, dissatisfied, and anxious. Instead of increasing our well-being, the multiplicity of options makes us constantly doubt our decisions and prevents us from fully enjoying what we have. This prevents us from experiencing genuine happiness, as we are constantly searching for something better, something more satisfying, something that always seems to be out of reach.
Happiness in Alaska and other remote places
Some people believe that happiness can be found in remote places far from civilization, such as in the pristine landscapes of Alaska. The idea of leaving the hustle and bustle of urban life behind and living in harmony with nature may appeal to those seeking a more authentic and simple way to exist. However, happiness is not something we can find simply by changing our geographical location.
Happiness as a state of consciousness
Happiness is a state of consciousness that arises from the connection with with ourselves, with others and with the environment that surrounds us. It is not a physical place that we can reach by moving to a remote destination, but rather an internal state that requires self-knowledge, acceptance and connection with our immediate environment.
Living in places like Alaska can offer a nurturing environment. for introspection and connection with nature, which can contribute to our emotional well-being. However, the true source of happiness is not in the external landscape, but in the way we relate to ourselves and others, regardless of our geographical location.
In short, happiness is a complex and dynamic emotional state that cannot be achieved permanently or in all circumstances. The constant pursuit of happiness as an ultimate goal is an illusion that leads us to lose sight of the richness and complexity of the human experience. Instead of pursuing happiness as a final destination, it is important to learn to accept and value the fullness of our emotions and experiences, both positive and negative, to find a satisfying and authentic emotional balance.