Is Happiness the Destination or the Journey?

I request that readers who have opened this article visualize certain scenes with me as I narrate them. Imagine that you are on a train and traveling to a destination you are unsure of because this is the first time you have visited there. The destination will be exciting as it will be a discovery in your life. But how often have we closed our eyes and not looked at the beautiful journey but just waited for the destination? We don't do so because train travels are equally about the journey and the destination. We peep through the windows and look at the grand mountains, beautifully structured buildings, and exotic wildlife.

So why am I saying this? Let's imagine our train journey as life; the destination can be any goal, achievement, or plan you may have for yourself. We all wait for the defining moment when we achieve our goals in life to feel happiness. But is happiness just about the destination? Or do we also enjoy, cherish and love our life along the way? We would have to explore this question, and the answer is surely a shift in our perspective.

Defining Happiness

Before we further explore the question, a simple question arises: What is Happiness?

Happiness is generally defined as an emotional state characterized by joy, satisfaction, contentment, and fulfillment. While happiness has many different definitions, it is often described as involving positive emotions and life satisfaction. We all understand and define happiness differently. However, happiness is mainly about the positive feelings and the pleasure we derive from our lives.

There are also certain prevalent myths about happiness we have always had, and they have been challenged and discussed below.

Happiness and the Various Milestones of Life

Growing up, deadlines have defined all our lives. We are told we will be happy after completing a goal or achieving something. We are first told that completing school and college will give us happiness. Then the plan shifts to getting a good job and settling down. And the most forced perspective by society on us all is marriage and having children.

Marriage and childbirth are considered the ultimate sources of happiness in society, especially for women. But the core aspect many of us fail to realize is that happiness is not a one-time accomplishment. It is constantly exploring your inner self and doing what you truly love. Happiness is a continuous process that depends on living life by your choices and cherishing all the moments that lead to peace, love, and contentment.

Is Happiness Binary in Nature?

Another perspective of happiness is that we are either happy or not, denoting that when we are not happy, there is something wrong with us. This understanding makes happiness look like a switch—either on or off. But that’s not how happiness works.

Happiness is not binary but a continuum. There are always days when we are happy, and days when we find it hard to get out of bed. In such instances, we must try to make ourselves a little happier each day. Avoid the pressure to be constantly happy—this can invalidate our feelings. Recognize that sadness is also a valid part of life.

Is Happiness Always About External Events?

We often place our happiness at the mercy of future events—waiting for a promotion, a relationship, or a major success. The problem? When we hinge happiness on external events, we give up control over our emotional well-being. And if those events don’t pan out as we hoped, it leaves us disheartened.

Even when those external events do happen, the happiness they bring is often short-lived. This is why we must find joy and contentment from within, rather than chasing it through circumstances beyond our control.

If Not Yesterday, Then Maybe Tomorrow

The good news is: if you weren’t happy yesterday, you can still be happier tomorrow.

Being a little happier means breaking down our lives into smaller, more manageable parts. You can’t fix everything overnight—but you can shift something today. These small shifts can create long-term change over time. Tiny doses of happiness and peace can stack up into a joyful life.

Ways to Be Happy

Here are some mindful, science-backed strategies to invite more happiness into your life:

Pursue meaningful goals – especially those rooted in personal growth or helping others. These are more fulfilling than goals solely based on wealth or status.
Savor the moment – enjoy your successes and happy moments instead of rushing to the next thing.
Be mindful – pay attention to the present and appreciate the little joyful experiences each day.
Reframe negative thoughts – without denying tough situations, challenge yourself to find a more positive or empowering perspective.
Build meaningful relationships – strong social support is closely tied to happiness and emotional well-being.
Exercise regularly – it improves mood, boosts energy, and is good for both mental and physical health.
Keep a gratitude journal – writing down things you’re grateful for boosts mood and helps rewire the brain to notice the good.
Find purpose – having a meaningful goal gives direction, motivation, and a reason to grow and contribute.

Final Thoughts

Happiness is an unbound and limitless treasure we can cherish for a lifetime! But to access it, we must shift how we see it—not just as a finish line but as a part of every step we take.

By extending gratitude, building healthy relationships, being present, and savoring the journey, we unlock happiness within ourselves. As the quote goes:

“Happiness is not by chance, but by choice.”
So let’s make more mindful and joyful choices!

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