What is happiness and how does one achieve it? This question has been asked by all civilizations and in every discipline since time immemorial.

The search for happiness and fulfillment involves, among other things, discerning the difference between pleasure and satisfaction. Pleasure is an immediate and temporary gratification that comes from outside of us. Satisfaction is a lasting joy that comes from within us. People who settle for temporary pleasures often find themselves in destructive habits like alcohol and drug abuse, gambling, or overeating. When they try to stop these habits, they often fall into inner struggles that are difficult to escape. Often we become slaves to our attachments and addictions, and when we try to free ourselves from them, we begin to feel empty and full of cravings. This often leads to relapse because we cannot distinguish the difference between satisfaction from within and pleasure from without. However, if we stop to think about what gives us lasting joy and satisfaction, then we can wholeheartedly do what is satisfying without inner tension.

Take the time to consider what actually brings you lasting joy and satisfaction. This will help you to find more happiness in your daily life.