Chapter 1: The Quest for Happiness

For a long time, I believed that the ultimate goal of life was to be happy, and to some extent, I still hold that view. After all, what motivates us to endure pain and hardship if not the pursuit of happiness? I’m certainly not alone in this belief; a glance around reveals that many people are on a quest for joy. And why shouldn’t they be?

This relentless pursuit often leads us to buy unnecessary items (guilty!), engage with people who don’t truly interest us (yikes!), and work tirelessly for the approval of those we don’t even like. Why do we act this way? The answer is complex, rooted in history, culture, media, economics, psychology, politics, and the digital age, among other factors.

While many enjoy dissecting why people feel unhappy or unfulfilled, I’m more focused on how we can instigate change. A few years back, I tried various methods to attain happiness. I purchased things with the hope they would bring joy. I engaged in casual relationships, thinking they would fill a void. I accepted a job I loathed under the belief that it would lead to happiness. I even went on vacations with the same expectation.

Yet, at the end of the day, whether alone or with a partner, I often found myself asking, “What’s next in this endless pursuit of happiness?”

So, what lies ahead?

We often chase arbitrary things believing they will bring us joy. It’s all a façade, a fabricated storyline. Did Aristotle mislead us when he proclaimed:

“Happiness is the meaning and the purpose of life, the whole aim and end of human existence”?

We should reconsider that quote. It suggests that happiness is the primary aim, but how do we achieve it?

Happiness shouldn’t be a standalone goal; it’s not a practical objective. I believe true happiness arises from being useful.

When discussing this notion with friends, family, and colleagues, I often struggle to articulate it clearly. However, I’ll attempt to convey my thoughts.

Most of our daily actions and experiences simply fill our time. We go on trips, head to work, shop, enjoy coffee, and eat meals. Shouldn’t these activities bring happiness? Yet, they often don’t; we aren’t creating anything meaningful. We’re merely consuming experiences, which, as I can personally attest, can lead to an uncomfortable waistline!

Don’t misunderstand; I enjoy holidays and shopping occasionally. However, these activities don’t provide true meaning to life. What genuinely fulfills me is being useful—creating something of value for others or engaging in acts that help.

For years, I found it challenging to express the concepts of usefulness and joy. It wasn’t until I became more conscious of my life’s direction that I recognized this connection. It’s quite simple, really: What are you doing to make a difference?

Have you contributed something meaningful in your life? You don’t need to aim to change the world; simply strive to improve it a little during your time here.

If you’re uncertain how to start, consider these suggestions: Help your boss with a task outside your role. Treat your mother or sister to a relaxing spa day. Create a physical photo collage for your partner. Write an article about your life lessons. Assist a mother with a toddler in a stroller. Call a friend and ask how you can support them. Start a business, hire someone, and treat them well!

These are just a few of the activities I enjoy; feel free to develop your own.

Do you see my point? It doesn’t require grand gestures. Small, meaningful actions each day contribute to a fulfilling life—a life with purpose.

The last thing I want to realize on my deathbed is that I left no mark on the world.

“Why work harder?” many ask, only to binge-watch the latest series on Netflix.

This reflects a different mindset.

Being useful is a mindset; like any worldview, it begins with a decision. One day, I woke up and asked myself, “What am I doing for this world?” The answer was nothing.

That day, I started writing. You might choose to paint, design a product, help the elderly, or pursue whatever ignites your passion.

Don’t take things too seriously. Avoid overthinking. Just do something useful. Anything.

Hi, I’m Scotty.

Having spent nearly 30 years as a senior leader in HR and IT, I enjoy writing about management styles, leadership principles, and various topics that interest me.

To keep up with my stories, I invite you to follow me, and if you appreciate my articles, consider subscribing to my newsletter.

Chapter 2: The Role of Usefulness

This first video explores the notion that life's purpose is not merely about seeking happiness but rather about being useful to others.

The second video reinforces the idea that the essence of life lies in usefulness rather than the fleeting pursuit of happiness.