In a discussion the other day, “happiness” as a topic came up.
Everyone brought up great points about how poorer people seem to be happy and that being happy had nothing to do with owning anything.
But I couldn’t help but wonder:
So why is it that we feel SOME happiness when we own or buy things?
If happiness is all about not owning much or anything, why do I feel happier WITH stuff than without?
Like buying a new car, creates happiness.
Or going on a vacation, makes people happy.
And of course, the ever popular “retail therapy” to make anyone feel better.
I believe we have two different versions of happiness:
The fast food version and the long lasting belly filling one.
The Fast Food Version
Similar to fast food, it delivers an immediate satisfaction very quickly, but after a really high rush… you crash and feel depressed or hungry an hour later.
Think: sugar rushes, or takeout Chinese food.
- It’s short-lived.
- It’s more of an “emotional high” than actual happiness.
- It feels awesome, and you get this rush through the middle of your core.
- You can’t stop smiling during that period.
The Long-Lasting, Bellyful Version
Similar to home-cooked meals, or eating in a good restaurant, it keeps you satisfied and content for the whole day, rather than hungry an hour later.
Plus, the good nutrients are absorbed into your body to nourish it.
- It’s present in our daily lives.
- It’s as a result of a change in our attitudes and emotions.
- It can be difficult to achieve at first, as it requires attention & scrutiny.
So while having a little bit of Fast Food Happiness once in a while can be a lot of fun,it isn’t as good as working towards something that will last forever.
Next: Discussing Happiness and how to Attain it
Julien
on Mar 1st, 2010
@ 10:18 am:
I think you are making a really good point with these two versions of happiness. I was wondering if "Fast Food Happiness" is – to some extent – part of the long-lasting version. Do these small rushes of happiness help to attain a more "sustainable state of happiness"?
nicole 86
on Mar 1st, 2010
@ 11:37 am:
Going on vacation, eating in a GOOD restaurant ( dishes wich are beautiful and tasty and smelly and …) are experiences.
Enjoying a bunch of flowers in a vase is an experience. Cooking from scratch can be enjoyable. perfumes are enjoyable ….
experiences and sharing pleasure are enjoyable, stuff is heavy doesn't bring joy
Enough food , a shelter , money to bring up our children is not stuff !
Carolyn
on Mar 2nd, 2010
@ 12:26 am:
YUMMMMMY i want some of that soup! I know that's not the point of the post but what can i say, i'm hungry!
quarterlife girl
on Mar 2nd, 2010
@ 8:37 pm:
That's a good comparison (those fries and burger look GOOD, but I know I'd regret eating them an hour later). For me buying stuff doesn't make me as "happy" as it just creates excitement though. Sometimes the thought of incorporating something new into your life irrationally leads to thoughts that this new "thing" will change everything! Like buying new gear for the kitchen…"NOW I'll enjoy cooking every night!" or buying new martini glasses…"Once I have these I can invite people over every night and spend less going out!" You know they aren't going to change anything, but while you're holding them in your hand at the store anything is possible! lol