THE THOUGHT

For me, no other moment rivals the magic of a sunrise.

The brief, golden burst of color spilling over the horizon perfectly blends beauty and simplicity. For a few fleeting minutes, it’s easy to be fully present, savoring the stillness before the world stirs awake.

But as the sun climbs higher, it brings more than fleeting beauty. It carries a sense of possibility, a promise that today might be different, better. A sunrise holds a unique duality: a fleeting moment when time feels frozen and perfectly aligned, coupled with a lingering seed of purpose that stretches far beyond the burst of color.

Some joys share this duality, while others stand firmly at either extreme. A perfect meal or the delight of a heartfelt compliment shines brightly but fades quickly. Meanwhile, the satisfaction of completing a meaningful project or the warmth of helping someone in need endures much longer, offering a lasting sense of purpose.

Why do some joys, like fireworks, dazzle brightly and fade swiftly, while others, like glowing embers, warm us steadily? And how can we learn to cherish the beauty of both?

THE DIVE

Dual Paths to Happiness

Happiness, in psychology and philosophy, often splits into two distinct forms: hedonic and eudaimonic happiness. Hedonic happiness is rooted in pleasure and gratification, focusing on maximizing positive emotions and minimizing discomfort. It’s the joy of indulgence, whether from savoring a dessert or basking in the glow of a compliment. Eudaimonic happiness, on the other hand, comes from living in alignment with one’s values and purpose. It’s tied to meaning, growth, and contribution, emerging from acts that may not always feel pleasurable in the moment but nurture a deeper sense of fulfillment over time.

Why does this distinction matter? Research shows that both types of happiness uniquely influence our well-being. Hedonic happiness often provides short-term boosts, lifting our mood and easing stress. It’s essential for moments of relief and celebration, preventing life from feeling excessively rigid. Yet, its fleeting nature can leave us chasing the next high, like a cycle that never quite satisfies.

Eudaimonic happiness, while less immediate, offers a more sustainable and profound sense of contentment. Studies suggest it’s linked to stronger mental health, resilience, and even physical well-being. It asks more of us, requiring introspection and effort, but it gives back in ways that feel lasting. A life rich in meaning and purpose doesn’t glitter like fireworks; it glows like a steady flame.

What’s fascinating is how the two paths coexist, sometimes blending seamlessly and other times competing for attention. Are we wired to prioritize one over the other, or can we learn to balance them? If hedonic happiness fills the moment, is it the eudaimonic that writes the story of a life well-lived? And perhaps most intriguingly, do we always know which kind of happiness we’re choosing when we make a decision?

THE PRACTICE

Balancing the Two Flames

What if we explored blending the fleeting sparkle of hedonic happiness with the steady glow of eudaimonic happiness? Here’s an idea we can try together. Each evening this week, take a moment to reflect on your day and ask yourself two simple questions:

1. What brought me joy? Look for the small, immediate pleasures that lifted your spirits, like the taste of fresh coffee or a warm conversation.

2. What felt meaningful? Notice anything connected to a deeper sense of contribution or purpose, like helping a friend or working toward a long-term goal.

Once you’ve noted these moments, carry them forward. Could you double down on one small joy tomorrow, savoring it more deeply? Or revisit something meaningful to build on its impact?

Happiness isn’t about choosing between sparks and flames, just as a sunrise or sunset holds meaning beyond what meets the eye. It’s about recognizing the beauty in both, inviting them into your life, and following where they lead.