What Is Happiness
And Why Does It Matter So Much?

Authored by William G. DeFoore, Ph.D.


The question, "What is happiness" has been present in human hearts and minds throughout our history, and it's a very important question.

Why? Because the pursuit of happiness, which includes efforts to avoid unhappiness, it the primary motivator of human behavior.

Whether you realize it or not, it's what you seek, throughout each day, and throughout your life. Let's find out exactly why that is...


What Is Happiness & Where Does It Come From?

If you're going to understand what happiness is, you definitely need to know where it comes from, right?

One thing for sure...it comes from inside you, not from outside. Of course some happiness can come from outside things, like seeing a good friend or loved one, or hearing good things from the people that matter to you.

But our focus is on the source of the feeling of happiness, not the external triggers for that feeling. For example,  an uplifting video can bring a happy feeling one day, and not so much on another day.

The happy feeling is inside you, and it is not under anyone else's control.

Here are some more answers to "What is happiness?"

  • Happiness is a feeling in your body. You know exactly what I'm talking about here, don't you? It's that feeling you want and always want more of. It's a light-heartedness, a high energy level, a feeling of enthusiasm that makes everything better.
  • Happiness is a state of mind. No big surprise here. When you're happy, your thoughts are more positive and optimistic, and you're more likely to be willing to try new things.
  • Happiness is a state of well being. When you're physically healthy, you're much more likely to be happy, and when you're happy, you're more likely to be healthy...meaning, your body has positive responses to the feelings of happiness, as illustrated in this article.

It's the reason we are looking for love, the reason we seek entertainment, and it is also the reason we work so hard so much of the time.

One of the emotions that brings us happiness is pride...pride in yourself and pride in others. Watch this excellent video, and ask yourself, "What am I most proud of?"






Why Does Happiness Matter So Much?


Happiness is sometimes so hard to achieve and maintain...

that some people give up on it and go in the direction of frustration, anger and cynicism. And that is detrimental their health and success in life.

So...never, ever give up on your pursuit of happiness!

What is happiness and why does it matter so much?

  • Because happiness is who you are. You don't have to teach a human infant to be happy. That emotion emerges spontaneously,when a child's basic needs are met. You were born happy, then life and its imperfections happened, and now you're seeking to reconnect with your natural, internal happiness. It is your nature to be happy.
  • Because it is your purpose in life to be happy. This might be a new idea for you, but think about this for a moment. When you're happy, you're healthier, smarter, and more kind and compassionate with others. You are naturally good, and you want to do good for others, and happiness is essential to your success in that.

What we're saying here is that the answer to "What is happiness and why does it matter so much?" is simply that happiness is who you are and what you're here for.

Since you were born happy, that tells us that the deepest core of your inner child contains your joy. Get your copy of the audiobook, Nurturing Your Inner Child now, and begin your journey to greater happiness and fulfillment in your entire life and relationships.

Listen to free previews below!


Inner Child

Nurturing Your Inner Child

One of the greatest tools for your inner journey of self healing and self help motivation is imagery. The Nurturing Your Inner Child audio program guides you on this journey, using imagery and positive self talk to give you the positive relationship with yourself you have always wanted.

Learn More Or Order Now


Still asking what is happiness? This entire site is devoted to answering that question for you. Just ask your question in the top right corner of this page, and you'll find what you're looking for.



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