

17. Why Trying to Be Happy Will Make You Unhappy: Emily Esfahani Smith
Oct 28, 2019
Emily Esfahani Smith, a writer and speaker known for her insightful explorations of the human experience, dives into the pursuit of meaning versus happiness. She discusses how chasing happiness can lead to dissatisfaction, advocating instead for a life enriched by purpose and connections. Emily emphasizes the significance of finding fulfillment in everyday actions and the value of relationships over mere achievements. With a fresh perspective, she encourages listeners to redefine their understanding of success and legacy in a world often fixated on fleeting happiness.
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Happiness vs. Meaning
- Chasing happiness can make people unhappy, as happiness is fleeting and often linked to getting what you want.
- Meaning comes from serving something beyond yourself and feeling your life matters, providing deeper fulfillment.
Givers Find Meaning
- Pursuing happiness often means being a taker, seeking to get what you want.
- Pursuing meaning involves being a giver, focusing on connecting and contributing to others.
Religion and Meaning Pillars
- Religion traditionally provides four pillars of meaning: belonging, purpose, storytelling, and transcendence.
- Losing religion leaves people free but struggling to create meaning independently in a secular world.