Fortune Friday: “Happiness is a direction, not a destination.”

We’ve all heard the phrase ‘Life is a journey, not a destination.’ And what is the primary life goal of every person but to be happy? In fact, if you ask most people what they truly want out of life the answer usually involves some variation on happiness, peace, or contentment. Essentially all the same thing.

Everyone wants to feel good. And not just physical pleasure, although sometimes that is nice too. No, most people want deep, satisfying fulfillment—true happiness.

The problem is that we typically go about trying to find that happiness in material possessions, relationships, status, professional achievements, etc. Basically all the things we know deep down don’t bring real happiness but that we desperately wish they did because outward symbols are more easily measurable.

But real happiness comes from inside. It is an inner knowing. It is a direction like the needle of a compass. It is something we move towards—or away from.

Which direction are you headed?

To your good fortune!