Core Argument - The conventional pursuit of happiness as the ultimate goal is misguided; fulfillment, rooted in self-realization and living by one's values, is a more meaningful aim [1][18] - Fulfillment is characterized by self-acceptance, gratitude, and optimism, representing a state of being rather than a fleeting emotion [19] - Overvaluing happiness can paradoxically lead to unhappiness, especially during challenging times; a fulfillment-based mindset provides resilience [20][21] Happiness vs Fulfillment - Happiness is defined as a feeling that produces excitement, joy, and pleasure, often associated with hedonic experiences and dopamine release [7][8][9] - Fulfillment, derived from the concept of "eudaimonia," emphasizes flourishing, self-realization, and aligning with personal values, offering a more enduring sense of purpose [18] - Time is the most valuable asset, and fulfillment helps individuals make the most of their time [19] Practical Implications - Shifting focus from happiness to fulfillment can lead to a more meaningful life, even amidst difficulties [17][21] - Embracing fulfillment may paradoxically result in experiencing more happiness along the way [22] - The speaker shares personal experiences and patient cases to illustrate the transformative power of prioritizing fulfillment [2][3][5][21][22]

[Music] Hello. I'm happy to be here with you today to talk about happiness. Do you ever ask yourself exactly what it is and how we define it and the ways in which we express it? I do. I think about it at a personal level. I think about it at a professional level when I talk to my students about ancient Greek philosophy. And I've been talk and I've been thinking about it even more lately as a result of preparing for this talk. In many ways, what is happiness really is a timeless question. It's been analyzed, ...