Chasing carrots

In today's achievement-oriented society, we often get caught up in chasing goals and measuring our self-worth by comparing ourselves to others. But ultimately, what we're really seeking is happiness and contentment.

Having goals and a sense of purpose is important, but those shouldn't be the only things that define our happiness.

Better or worse, says who?

Comparing yourself to others is a losing proposition. Everyone has different privileges, experiences, and levels of effort that can't be objectively measured. What's "hard" for one person may be easy for you.

When you compare yourself, there are only two outcomes - feeling superior or inferior. Either way, you're gambling with your own happiness. Your friend's higher salary diminishes your satisfaction with your own job. But they would feel bad about themselves if they made less than you.

No one wins in the comparison game.

Maybe you can just "live"

Goals can help you grow, but achieving them doesn't guarantee lasting happiness. There will always be another goal after the current one. Pinning your happiness to a future achievement means you'll only feel content for a fleeting moment.

Chasing goals and dreams can be like a donkey endlessly pursuing a carrot dangling just out of reach. No matter how far or fast the donkey runs, the carrot always remains maddeningly out of reach.

In the same way, we often find ourselves caught in an endless cycle of striving, believing that happiness and fulfilment lie just beyond the next achievement. But once we reach that milestone, the satisfaction is fleeting, and a new goal occurs.

We think, "I'll be content when I get that promotion, buy that house, find that relationship..." But another carrot always appears on the horizon, tempting us to chase after it.

True happiness can't be tied to external goals that keep moving the finish line. It has to come from within, from finding joy and meaning in the present journey, not an imagined future destination.

You are your top priority

In a world obsessed with external markers of success, remember that you are the most important person in your life. Don't compare yourself to others or live to please them.

You don't need an impressive resume or life milestones to justify your existence. It's okay to be content with where you are now. Do things that bring you joy with no strings attached.

Happiness is an inside job. And you're the only one who can give yourself that gift. Because when it comes down to it, you're living your life.

Make it one that feels good to you.