Happiness depends upon ourselves.
What's the meaning of this quote?
Quote Meaning: This succinct statement speaks volumes about personal responsibility and the power of self-determination when it comes to our own contentment. The central idea here is that happiness is not something that is handed to us from external sources, but rather, it's something we cultivate within ourselves. We might think that happiness hinges on achieving certain milestones, like getting a promotion at work, buying a new car, or going on a dream vacation. While these events can certainly contribute to momentary joy, they are not the primary drivers of enduring happiness. In this quote, happiness is portrayed as an internal state, dependent less on external circumstances and more on our attitudes, perceptions, and responses. It's about realizing that we have the power to choose our reactions, to find joy in the ordinary, and to practice gratitude regardless of what's happening around us. It's a call to introspection, self-awareness, and personal growth. In essence, it emphasizes that the quest for happiness is an inside job, something that we have to actively work on, rather than passively await.
Who said the quote?
The quote "Happiness depends upon ourselves." was said by Aristotle (Bio / Quotes). Aristotle was a Greek philosopher and scientist who is widely regarded as one of the greatest thinkers in history.
Is there a historical example that illustrates the message of the quote?
A powerful historical example of the idea that "Happiness depends upon ourselves" can be found in the life of Viktor Frankl, an Austrian neurologist, psychiatrist, and Holocaust survivor. Frankl was imprisoned in Nazi concentration camps during World War II, including Auschwitz. Despite the unimaginable suffering and deprivation, Frankl found a profound sense of purpose and inner freedom.
Frankl’s experiences led him to develop logotherapy, a form of existential analysis, which posits that the search for meaning is the central human motivational force. He observed that individuals who could find a sense of purpose or meaning, even in the direst circumstances, were more likely to endure suffering with a semblance of happiness or contentment. In his seminal work, Man’s Search for Meaning, Frankl illustrates that happiness and inner peace are not dependent on external conditions but rather on one’s attitude and perspective.
For instance, despite the harsh conditions and the constant threat of death, Frankl found that those who could cling to personal values, memories of loved ones, or future goals were often better equipped to handle the psychological torment of the camps. His own determination to survive and help others find meaning in their suffering exemplifies the idea that true happiness and fulfillment come from within, regardless of external circumstances.
How can the quote be applied in a real-life scenario?
Applying the quote "Happiness depends upon ourselves" in a real-life scenario involves understanding that our sense of well-being and contentment is largely shaped by our internal attitudes and choices rather than external factors.
Consider the example of someone facing a challenging job situation. Imagine an individual who has been passed over for a promotion or is experiencing conflicts with colleagues. The natural response might be frustration, disappointment, or even resignation. However, applying the idea that happiness is within our control means shifting focus from external disappointments to internal responses and attitudes.
This person might choose to view the situation as an opportunity for growth and self-improvement rather than a setback. By focusing on what they can control—such as developing new skills, seeking constructive feedback, or cultivating a positive mindset—they take proactive steps towards personal happiness. Instead of letting external factors dictate their emotional state, they embrace the power to shape their own happiness through their responses and actions.
In essence, by recognizing that happiness depends upon our own attitudes and responses, we empower ourselves to find contentment and joy regardless of external circumstances. This perspective fosters resilience and a more positive outlook on life, demonstrating that while we cannot always control what happens to us, we can always control how we choose to respond.
Chief Editor
Tal Gur is an author, founder, and impact-driven entrepreneur at heart. After trading his daily grind for a life of his own daring design, he spent a decade pursuing 100 major life goals around the globe. His journey and most recent book, The Art of Fully Living, has led him to found Elevate Society.
