Mason K.
Every year, Forbes publishes the list of the top 400 richest people in America, known as the Forbes 400 List. But I’ve always wondered, where is the list for the top 400 happiest people? How do we measure happiness? Who is truly happy and who isn’t? What factors contribute to happiness or unhappiness? These questions led me to explore the true meaning of happiness.
I decided to study psychology to find answers. I thought that by studying happy people, I would uncover the secret to lasting happiness. I found that some countries, despite having lower GDPs, were happier than the wealthiest countries. Some individuals had circumstances that made them happier, but not everyone fit neatly into these patterns. Many people were still quite unhappy.
I discovered that there isn’t a simple recipe for happiness. It’s not about having more money, a bigger house, fancier cars, a higher social status, marriage, children, or other temporary pleasures. The more I learned, the more I realized that happiness is closely linked to the mind.
That’s when I turned to meditation. If I couldn’t find answers in the material world, maybe the non-material world could offer some insights. And I’m glad to say that meditation proved to be a powerful tool. The reason many of us feel unfulfilled is that we chase happiness through material things driven by our ego, or what I call the “false mind.”
This false mind is driven by endless hunger and greed, and it can never be satisfied. People talk about minimalism, but even the minimalist mindset is rooted in a form of greed. True enlightenment and happiness come when we let go of ego, desire, greed, and selfishness. You might think this is impossible or that you still want material comforts, like a big house or a nice car.
The beauty of meditation is that it doesn’t force you to live like a monk in the mountains. It allows you to live authentically. Since starting meditation, my career, relationships, and financial situation have improved greatly. I can enjoy a luxurious life without the greed that often accompanies it. It’s a liberating experience.
Don’t chase after temporary materialistic happiness. It will always lead to a sense of emptiness. Let go of your ego and discover a happiness that money can’t buy. Find true happiness within yourself!
