Achieving Eudaimonic Well-Being
Ancient philosophers' writings on happiness can be found.
Hedonism, which derives from the Greek philosopher Aristippus, seeks to
increase pleasure (such as a pleasant mood) while minimizing suffering (e.g.,
negative emotion).
The "feeling good" component of happiness is the
focus of hedonism. When taken to its logical conclusion, it might mean the
pursuit of pleasure and doing anything you want to get there. For instance,
Aristippus lived a life of sensuous pleasure and did whatever to further that
goal. He had numerous affairs, relished good dining and aged wines, and showed
little regard for the social norms observed in Greece at the time. What might
this look like in current life, given that he is the extreme of hedonism?
Hedonism can take many different forms, and some examples
are as follows:
- Consumerism/materialism
- Indulgent eating
- Casual sex
- Excessive consumption of alcohol/drugs
One other concept for understanding happiness is eudaimonia,
which combines the terms eu (good) and daimon (happy) (spirit). According to the
definition, eudaimonia is "a life well lived" or "human
flourishing."
This strategy has its roots in Aristotle's Nicomachean
Ethics, which emphasizes the philosophical foundations of happiness (translated
by Irwin, 1985). Aristotle emphasizes in this work the importance of acts of
virtue, which include making the right decisions, in achieving eudaimonia. The
"doing good" component of happiness is the main focus of eudaimonia.
Eudaimonia, according to Aristotle, is the "pursuit of
virtue, excellence, and the finest within us." According to Aristotle,
leading a life that is in line with virtues will lead to happiness. These ideas
were first presented in Nichomachean Ethics, where he outlines the procedures
for obtaining eudaimonia:
"The pursuit of eudaimonia is the life. In order to
excel in life, one must push themselves to its absolute limits. A life that
is eudaimonic will be rich in the joy that comes from overcoming a significant
challenge rather than just receiving everything you want. The model of
psychological well-being is one of the most widely utilized approaches to
understanding happiness and well-being. The concept of psychological well-being
put forth by Carol Ryff in 1989 attempts to encompass all potential
contributing factors in life. Six essential components make up her model. You
can see a sample item from her scale for each in brackets.
- Self-acceptance is the complete acceptance of oneself,
including flaws and talents. It is also the basis for self-improvement.
- Developing personally and realizing potential
- Life has significance and purpose; this is its purpose.
- Meaningful relationships with people are a sign of positive
relationships. You can also build an emotional connection by seeking help from an Online
Counsellor.
- Environmental Mastery: Taking Charge of Your Environment
- Autonomy is a feeling of control and independence over one's life.
Even if you've learned a lot about eudaimonia, you could still require additional guidance. Here are some concrete actions you may take to encourage eudaimonia:
1. Be clear about your values and
uphold them.
Each of us holds distinct values. When something is truly
important to you, do your best to stick with it regardless of what others
think. Additionally, this will make you feel more authentic.
2. List your most important objectives.
I realize that this seems like a difficult task but bear
with me. This isn't your typical professional objective, and this isn't where
you envision yourself in 20 years. These objectives correspond to your
essential values. They may be connected to your profession, for sure, but think
about it at a broader level.
3. Refine your Skills and
capabilities.
Whatever your identity, you are skilled at something. You
possess qualities that can aid in your goal-achieving. Perhaps you have an
excellent ear for music, are detail-oriented, or are skilled at offering
advice. Whatever it is, concentrate your efforts on honing the talents that
make you happy.
4. Prefer Quality over Quantity of Relationships.
Although it may seem obvious, social relationships are
really important for well-being. As you begin new chapters in your life, you
will undoubtedly develop new relationships, but don't forget to prioritize the
people who are most important to you. This can be as easy as giving them your
gratitude or calling them occasionally to see how they're doing. Additionally,
when relationships stop benefiting us, it may be appropriate to end them.
5. Carry forth your actual desires.
As you have learned, you may choose to do something because
it will benefit you personally (intrinsic motivation) or because it will
benefit others (i.e., extrinsic motivation). Find activities you enjoy doing
rather than just those you must. Yes, there are many obligations and activities
that are intrinsically driven in life, but even a small number of enjoyable
side interests can be beneficial in the long term.
6. Be loyal to yourself and genuine.
Have you ever said something or done anything after feeling
a little bit out of "yourself"? Me too. We've all experienced them.
It is uncomfortable because it seems as though you are lying to yourself. It
makes sense that "authenticity" would play such a significant role in
eudaimonia.
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Contributed by: - Dr (Prof) R K Suri, Best Clinical Psychologist in Delhi,
NCR & Aditi Bhardwaj
Counselling Psychologist
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