How are you pursuing your life?

Photo by Nathan V.

Do you seek pleasure, purpose, or a combination of both?

I recently came across these two words – eudaimonic and hedonism.

Eudaimonic pursuits focus on one’s true potential, virtues, and overall well being. I believe from these we form our purpose or meaning on why we’re here and how we can contribute to the “collective”. We choose how we’re going to navigate life long term and aren’t affected as much by everyday ups and downs.

Hedonism, on the other hand, focuses on maximizing pleasure and minimizing pain in the short term. With that comes an emphasis on immediate gratification.

I find these interesting in that how we are feeling in this current moment in respect to our mind, body and spirit might be related to these two pursuits. Depression, illnesses, and why me lord are trying to tell us something. Are we listening?

In my experience when I solely have a me me me focus on pleasure, life eventually lends itself to a shit show. On the other hand, when I’m in tune, contributing, and connected with others goodness naturally gravitates toward me. Happiness comes from putting in the work. It’s a good work.

This is probably all common sense that if our life isn’t where we want it to be it might be a good exercise to stop and think about our focus. The problem is we don’t take the time to look inside. LOOK!

Would love to hear your thoughts and experiences on this.

Peace,

Dwight🦋

11 responses to “How are you pursuing your life?”

  1. There are many ways to look at this.
    eg, short term thinking vs long term thinking
    short term = instant gratification now and dont worry about consequences or how to pay for it.
    I find it leads to an empty hollow life with no meaning

    long term = save money for that holiday or plant and tend a garden and watch it grow.

    Liked by 2 people

    1. I like these and am right inline with you. Thank you for sharing.

      Like

  2. eudaimonic is a new word for me – thanks, Dwight!

    Liked by 2 people

    1. It was for me too. Got me thinking for sure.😊📕

      Like

  3. You already know mine but it’s happiness. I try to have it everyday and also send it out everyday. Long term, that comes back to you with the people you choose to share your happiness with. They even unknowingly will shine happiness to you sometimes on the days you really need it. ❤️

    Liked by 3 people

    1. You definitely do that Jackie! I see it and feel it everyday❤️😊

      Liked by 3 people

  4. I’ve experienced both, but today I lean more toward eudaimonia. Overall well-being is my idea of happiness. ❤️

    Liked by 1 person

    1. Same, Barb. It was interesting looking back at my life and seeing how things played out based on these two principles.

      Liked by 1 person

  5. I have definitely lived most of my life following the hedonistic principle, and it was fun at times. I don’t regret some of it at all. However, as I mature and in recent years, I find it unhelpful for lasting happiness and joy. So I move towards well being and maybe becoming a little more eudaiminic … although it sounds like demonic .. which is not what I’m aiming for at all 🤣🤣🤣🥰

    Liked by 1 person

    1. Ha! You’re awesome😊😂

      Liked by 1 person

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