Authentic happiness. pleasure and meaning

Positive psychology defines authentic happiness as an experience that integrates two fundamental dimensions of well-being, the hedonic component and the eudaimonic component.

This combined vision proposes that a truly fulfilling life is not limited to the accumulation of pleasurable moments.

It also requires the active search for purpose and meaning that transcends the immediate.

Hedonic Wellness. The Path of Pleasure

The hedonic aspect of happiness is related to the presence of a high level of positive emotions and a low level of negative emotions.

It consists of the pursuit of pleasure, joy, comfort and satisfaction of desires.

It is the moments of enjoyment and pleasant sensory experiences that characterize this facet of well-being.

While enjoying life's pleasures is a valuable component, an existence focused exclusively on hedonism can present limitations.

A phenomenon known as "hedonic adaptation" describes how people tend to become accustomed to sources of pleasure, which over time decreases the intensity of the happiness they provide.

For example, the satisfaction obtained from material goods or achievements can be ephemeral if it is not complemented by other aspects of well-being.

Eudaimonic Well-Being. The Search for Meaning

In contrast, eudaimonic well-being focuses on creating purpose and meaning in life.

This dimension is linked to the development of human potential, self-realization and living in accordance with one's values.

It implies feeling part of something bigger than oneself and finding a transcendent meaning in one's actions and existence.

Finding meaning in everyday activities, whether through work, interpersonal relationships or contribution to the community, is essential for eudaimonic well-being.

A clear example is that of a person who sees his profession not only as a means to make a living.

But as a vocation that allows him to help others, finding in it a deep satisfaction and a sense of personal fulfillment.

Towards Complete Happiness

Authentic happiness, from the perspective of positive psychology, is achieved by integrating and balancing hedonic experiences with the eudaimonic search for meaning and purpose.

A life that combines moments of joy and pleasure with a deep sense that one's existence has value and direction leads to a more robust and sustainable well-being.

This integrated approach recognizes that while momentary enjoyment is desirable, long-term life satisfaction and the ability to cope with challenges are fundamentally nurtured when life is meaning-driven.

That meaning goes beyond the individual and aligns with his or her deepest values.

The interaction of both components-pleasure and meaning-is what allows for fuller human flourishing.