Meaning lasts
Gratifications have an important place in a happy life. They provide bursts of joy, energy, excitement, pride, and pleasure. It's good to feel good.
The problem, though, is that we expect gratifications to last. We expect these good feelings to stay with us, but they don't. That's not what they're designed to do.
It's all too easy to end up stuck in an endless cycle:
Pursue a pleasure
Get it
Feel good
Soon after, feel empty, dissatisfied, or unfulfilled
Look around for something new to pursue
If you've ever wondered, "Why aren't I happy yet?" it might be because you're pursuing something that isn't actually capable of making you lastingly happy.
That's why we need to also cultivate meaning, too. It's something that offers a longer-lasting experience of well-being. It nourishes you.
Here are a few ways you can create more meaning in your life today.
Your loved ones: call someone just to ask them how they’re doing; surprise a family member with a little gift; do something new and different with your family.
Your work: ask to take on a difficult but exciting project; choose one new skill you’d like to cultivate; offer to mentor someone.
Your leisure: try a hobby that’s always fascinated you; visit a local park or place in nature; bring together a group of people who you think will get along.
Your community: look up nonprofits where you could give back using your energy or skills; drop off your used items where they might be useful; check in on your neighbors; choose a cause that you’re passionate about and join a group that's advocating for it.
