Most people go through life trying to find true fulfillment. People often say: “I want to be happy.” I often ask people a question: is it more important to you that you find happiness or true contentment? Some might say that happiness is more important. I try to offer an alternative perspective: when we seek contentment over happiness, then we can truly find the happiness that we are looking for.

Trading contentment for happiness means accepting things for the way that they are. Acceptance can apply to life, stress, difficult seasons of life, painful life events (both physical and emotional), physical illness, death, or the aftermath of a traumatic loss (or event). Oftentimes, when we experience these types of things (both in small doses and in large), we tend to think that we are doing something wrong in life – or that life is being unfair to us – instead of accepting these moments, learning from them, and allowing these experiences to grow us.

Although some people may argue that it is still better to chase happiness, one might say: “I just do whatever makes me happy.” This type of person may argue that if he finds himself in a bad life situation, that he should “find something that makes him happy” – or simply “just be happy.” Not only do these sentiments probably feel like platitudes (and therefore seem to fall short), but they also beg the question: what if I cannot just be happy?

This is where contentment comes in as a solution. When contentment is the aim, one could find himself in the direst circumstances – and still, be content. Perhaps it seems like a splitting of hairs – but this distinction is important! It is impossible (by logic) to be sad and happy at the same time – but – it is absolutely possible to be sad and content at the same time!

Because the above dichotomy (sad and content) is seemingly available to us at any given time, then (at least from a mental health perspective) it would appear to be the more appropriate solution! If you are looking to find some ways to trade the pursuit of happiness for that of contentment, find a well-qualified counselor or coach in your area. He or she would undoubtedly be happy to help you on this journey!