The Arrival Fallacy: Why We're Never Truly Satisfied

The arrival fallacy refers to the belief that we will be happy and satisfied once certain desired events or outcomes occur. However, research shows that the happiness we anticipate is often exaggerated, and the actual experience falls short of our expectations. This bias, known as affective forecasting, leads us to overestimate the intensity and duration of our future happiness. We become 'happy if' or 'happy when' people, constantly seeking external achievements or possessions to bring us happiness. Yet, even when these goals are accomplished, they rarely deliver the level of happiness we envisioned. The arrival fallacy highlights the importance of finding contentment and joy in the present moment rather than relying on future events or achievements for our happiness.