2 myths about the pursuit of happiness

My girlfriend just lost her job. Everyone’s reaction was, “Oh, that’s too bad!”. But it was probably the single-best thing that has ever happened to her. Why? She was a drone. She went through life doing something she was comfortable in. But in truth she hated her job. The thing is that it paid very well, gave her the flexibility to work from home and it was a job she could do in her sleep. Yet every night she would go to bed and lay awake for hours fearing the moment she would wake up and have to get ready for another day at work. Comfort does not breed happiness.

For those of you who have read my story,  you know that I worked for a number of different agencies over the course of 13 years. I wanted to be the best at what I did. I worked extremely long hours, staying late at the office, bringing my work home with me, working weekends. I had built the reputation I desired, I had gained the trust of my clients and I was being groomed to take over my boss’ job. I was miserable. Success does not breed happiness.

Fulfillment breeds happiness. What ever fulfillment means to you. Think about what you want your legacy to be and build a plan for how to achieve it. Don’t get caught up in comfort and success. You may just find out too late that you’ve missed out on happiness.