Undue...

 

What made us happy?  

Aristotle proposed eudaimonia—of leading a virtuous life—as the pinnacle of happiness. The notion of living a meaningful and fulfilling life (e.g., making genuine social connections, excelling in one’s capabilities, being morally sound, etc.) bodes well with the positive psychology movement that emerged at the turn of the 21st century, giving rise to concepts such as flow, flourishing, and eudemonic well-being.

 While the significant role that eudaimonia plays in happiness, the pendulum has swung too far in this direction when it comes to determining what “should” make people happy.

Too many people today , young and old, are under constant pressure to build a successful and prosperous career, do well in school, be a good parent (or child), make meaningful social relationships, or exert positive social influence.  The problem is that these “virtues” have become so synonymous with achieving happiness that they are placing undue burden on individuals.