The Happiness Paradox

I spend a lot of time thinking about happiness. Turns out I should probably stop.

A study from the University of Toronto reveals that actively trying to be happier can deplete our mental resources, leading to diminished self-control and, paradoxically, less happiness.

The research involved a series of experiments to understand the psychological effects of actively striving for happiness.

Participants who were explicitly instructed to focus on becoming happier showed reduced self-regulation and impulse control compared to those who weren’t given such instructions.

The researchers theorised that this happens because pursuing happiness requires cognitive effort, which can drain our limited mental energy.

As a result, those fixated on increasing their happiness often felt more exhausted and less fulfilled.

Participants who engaged in enjoyable activities without pressure to feel happier experienced greater well-being than those who actively sought happiness.

In other words, happiness is best approached indirectly—through engaging in meaningful experiences, relationships, and personal growth—rather than being forced as a conscious objective.

Reflecting on this, I am reminded to enjoy the journey, do my best every day and focus on having meaningful experiences and relationships.

Today’s Prompts

1 - How can you shift your focus from pursuing happiness to embracing contentment in the present?

2 - How does societal pressure to be happy influence your well-being?

3 - Reflect on a time when pursuing happiness led to unexpected stress or disappointment. What did you learn from that experience?

Get the most out of your journalling:

• Choose one prompt: Focus on just one prompt each day to avoid feeling overwhelmed.

• Be brutally honest: Reflect openly and honestly. This is your safe space to explore your thoughts and feelings.

• Take your time: Sometimes it takes a few days to clarify your thinking. Here’s permission for you to take your time to unravel a prompt and not take on any new ones during that time.

• Journal your way: Whether you prefer writing, audio recording, or video, choose the method that suits you best.

• Don't stress about streaks: If you miss a day, don't worry. You can always revisit a previous prompt.

I’d love your feedback

What was your favourite prompt of the day? Is there any specific challenge you want prompts for? How can I improve the content of the newsletter? Reply this mail and let me know!