Happiness as a life process and outcome

A third perspective, especially valued within positive psychology, conceives happiness not as an end state or a destination.

But as the natural result of a life guided by a clear purpose and lived in accordance with well-defined personal values.

This vision emphasizes happiness as a path to follow, a consequence of how we live day by day.

Life with Purpose and Goals

From this approach, happiness emerges when a life is lived with goals and purpose that transcend the immediate.

It refers to the idea of having a clear north, like a ship that knows where it is heading in the vast ocean of existence, as opposed to being adrift.

When a person has defined goals and a sense of direction, he or she is more likely to experience a lasting sense of fulfillment and well-being.

The clarity of the objectives allows to evaluate the progress and to feel fulfilled with the advances.

Alignment with Life Values

Living in accordance with well-defined life values is another fundamental pillar of this conception of happiness.

Values act as an internal compass that guides decisions and actions.

When daily conduct is consistent with these fundamental values (such as honesty, freedom, love for others, among others), internal harmony is produced, which translates into well-being.

It invites deep introspection to identify what are those most important personal values, beyond clichés or preconceived ideas, and to live authentically in accordance with them.

Happiness as a Way

This perspective emphasizes that happiness is not a place where one arrives and settles permanently. It is a continuous process, a path to be traveled.

While this idea may sound cliché, it holds a profound truth about the dynamic nature of well-being.

It is a philosophy of life that invites constant reflection, open-mindedness and the active construction of a meaningful existence, instead of waiting for happiness to arrive by itself or depending exclusively on external factors.