Chapter 1: The Myth of Constant Happiness

The concept of happiness is often presented as a formula, yet it remains fluid and varies from individual to individual, shifting with time and circumstances.

In the realm of self-help, countless articles promise, "101 ways to be your best self," or "how to be 10% happier TODAY." Phrases like "Money can't buy happiness, but THIS can" and "3 strange tricks to feel happier" flood our feeds. However, I've found these claims to be misleading. They frequently consist of catchy, consumable lists crafted solely to draw clicks, rather than offering genuine insight.

My greatest concern regarding these self-improvement narratives is the false notion that perpetual happiness is within reach. It is not. We will experience sadness, and there will be days when we feel unproductive or inadequate. While we cannot avoid these low moments entirely, we can take certain steps to lessen their frequency.

Another troubling aspect of these step-by-step guides to contentment is their focus on life goals while neglecting the value of our daily experiences. Many suggest that true self-worth comes from the relentless sacrifice of our desires. This often translates into the belief that to achieve happiness, one must forgo every fleeting pleasure.

Common advice such as "Wake up at 5 am," "Take a cold shower," or "Make your bed" permeates the conversation. While these practices can indeed foster a sense of accomplishment, the underlying message often promotes an existence devoid of joy, making even small pleasures seem monumental.

It's important to clarify that habits like making your bed or maintaining a healthy diet can enhance our daily happiness. However, depriving ourselves of brief moments of joy can lead to a life marked by monotony. Enjoying life requires practice, and if we deny ourselves simple pleasures, we risk losing the ability to appreciate them entirely.

While I may not possess the secret to a fulfilling day, I believe such moments are attainable. Life is rich with opportunities for enjoyment that can fill not just a single day but the majority of our existence. The real challenge lies not in questioning whether we deserve happiness, but in reflecting on which experiences bring us the most joy and pursuing them.

When I find myself feeling down, it can be challenging to believe that I can improve my mood. Identifying activities that genuinely uplift me—rather than simply serving as distractions—requires effort. Yet, in moments of happiness, the choice to engage in what I love comes naturally.

Thus, I encourage you to create a list of activities that bring you joy—not for any potential future benefits, but simply for the delight they provide. For me, writing, taking walks, and playing guitar are passions worth pursuing, regardless of their outcomes. Although discovering this list can be a challenge, the reward is undoubtedly worth the effort.

In the first video titled "DON'T Sacrifice PRESENT Happiness for FUTURE Happiness!" (Mad FIentist), the speaker discusses the importance of prioritizing current joy over future expectations, emphasizing that happiness in the present is essential for a fulfilling life.

Chapter 2: The Value of Present Joy

The second video, "Start Sacrificing for Your Future," explores the balance between enjoying the present and making sacrifices for future goals, reminding us that both aspects are vital for a well-rounded life.