Chapter 1: Understanding Happiness

Recently, I've been grappling with a profound sense of emptiness. Several times, I found myself lying in bed, contemplating, “What is the true purpose of our existence?” While it may sound philosophical, this question has always been challenging for many. Those fortunate enough to discover their life's purpose early on truly exemplify success. Whether or not they reach their goals, having a sense of purpose is invaluable.

In addition to purpose, happiness is something everyone seeks to attain. It's an emotion and a significant source of energy for humanity, yet it carries numerous interpretations.

During a recent visit to Vietnam after years away, I had the joy of reconnecting with my elementary school friends at a quaint roadside café that evoked nostalgic memories. Although it had been years since our last encounter, the initial awkwardness dissipated quickly, and we soon found ourselves engaged in lively conversation.

We shared updates about our lives: one had become a club captain, another was volunteering, and yet another was preparing for study abroad. As the conversation began to wane, I posed a question that had long intrigued me: “What does happiness mean to you?”

My best friend replied without hesitation, “It’s about having ample money and living luxuriously!”

The class president had a different view: “No, happiness is about having freedom and comfort.”

Another friend chimed in, “You’re mistaken! Happiness lies in settling down and achieving stability.”

What followed was a spirited debate as each defended their perspective, while I quietly absorbed the discussion. Each viewpoint had merit. Money, freedom, and family are all crucial aspects contributing to happiness. But if that's the case, what precisely is happiness?

I find myself questioning this, too.

In her book “The How of Happiness,” Sonja Lyubomirsky defines happiness as “the experience of joy, contentment, or positive well-being, coupled with a sense that one’s life is good, meaningful, and worthwhile.” While I resonate with this description, it still leaves me searching for a more complete understanding.

“Experience of joy”—but where do we discover genuine joy? Is it found in the hours spent on our devices or in our professional achievements? Do these moments lend our lives true meaning? These are ceaseless inquiries driven by doubt and uncertainty—a cycle that seems never-ending. Perhaps a broader perspective is needed.

As highly developed beings with distinct thoughts and perceptions, our individual viewpoints shape our realities. For instance, one might say, “I prefer this painting over that one!” or “This dish is awful!” Yet, someone else may have an entirely different opinion about the artwork or find the dish delightful. How does this connect to happiness?

It connects deeply! If one holds preconceived notions about objects, it's likely they do so about other aspects of life as well. My best friend associates happiness with wealth and luxury, as those are the things he covets—his sources of joy. The class president finds happiness in freedom and comfort, valuing quality moments with family and pursuing her interests. All these interpretations of happiness exist, yet they manifest in diverse forms. So, what about you? What defines your happiness?

Ultimately, the answer lies within you.

Whether it’s wealth or freedom, stability or adventure, comfort or activity, joy or tranquility, noise or silence—what truly matters is your sense of happiness.

“Happiness is when you are content with yourself and do not seek validation from others.”

Chapter 2: The Quest for Happiness

In this chapter, we will explore insights from influential speakers on the subject of happiness.

The first video features Dominic Price, who poses the question, “What’s your happiness score?” His talk delves into personal reflections on happiness and its significance in our lives.

The second video, titled "Why Your Happiness Matters," emphasizes the importance of prioritizing happiness in our daily lives and its impact on our overall well-being.