“Happiness is a journey, not a destination”, we have often heard this saying and it has a deep meaning in itself. Happiness is generally defined as a mental or emotional state, characterized by positive or pleasant feelings ranging from contentment to intense joy. It is also used in the context of life satisfaction, subjective well-being, and fulfilment. Today, Happiness appears to be an elusive goal in a quick-paced and fiercely competitive world and in this modern era, we are conditioned to believe that we will get happiness only after achieving our respective goals or reaching destinations. We are encouraged to strive for success and reach the end goal, believing that it is the key to happiness. However, if we step back and reflect, we realize that true happiness lies not in the destination, but in the journey itself, that leads us there. 

According to studies, happiness is a journey that necessitates a holistic approach to life rather than a goal that can be obtained via the use of external elements. This essay, therefore, explores the concept that the journey is what brings us happiness. By examining personal growth, self-discovery, embracing uncertainty, finding joy in the present, building resilience, and forming meaningful connections, we realize the journey itself becomes the ultimate source of happiness.

The Taittriya Upanishad comprehensively deals with the inquiry, “Is Bliss inherent or generated?” and after much profound discussion concludes that bliss is neither a process or path or a journey or even a destination but Bliss is our default state. We are in a state of bliss itself! One of the very purposes of life is to be conscious of that truth. Bliss cannot be broken up into pieces nor can it have any other state. Whenever life’s tensions pull us away from that state of bliss, we are always pulled back into that permanent state again by natural energies even if we don’t want it. Our will can, at best, only be a catalyst. Bliss is not a stationary state. Bliss is energy vibrations. It’s the dance of vacuum energies, random and spontaneous. All matter and life forms are accidental incidentals of this random pulsing throbs of cosmic bliss.

Similarly, Mahatma Gandhi emphasized the significance of the journey, not just the destination, in attaining true happiness and fulfilment. He believed that happiness could be found by fully immersing oneself in the tasks at hand and appreciating the beauty of each moment. When we solely fixate on the result or destination, we often neglect the present moment and miss out on the beauty of the process and experience one gets. Happiness can be found by being fully present and embracing each step along the way. It is therefore as much a journey inwards as it is outwards, covering both the spiritual and physical realms.  For instance, if a traveller while going to a location is only focused on reaching their final destination fast and rushes through the journey, may miss out on the breathtaking scenery, local interactions and cultural experiences, along the way and the realization that comes with it. By relishing the present, we develop gratitude and deepen our appreciation for life’s simple and small pleasures that lead to greater overall happiness. 

The journey towards our aim offers us a beautiful opportunity for personal growth, learning, and self-discovery. In the form of encountering challenges, making mistakes, and gaining valuable experiences from them helps us grow as individuals. The journey towards a goal is often filled with challenges, setbacks, and moments of self-reflection. It is during this process that personal growth takes place, leading to a deeper sense of happiness and fulfilment. When individuals strive towards a destination, they are forced to confront their limitations, step out of their comfort zones, and develop resilience. The journey becomes a transformative experience, shaping their character and expanding their horizons. For example, a UPSC aspirant aiming for success in a competitive exam may initially focus solely on clearing the exam. However, it is through the process of preparation, studying, engaging with different subjects, and exploring new ideas that he/she truly develops intellectually and expands their horizons adding to their holistic development and comprehensive personality growth, that will help them lifelong to navigate the choppy waters of life, whether or not they ultimately clear the said examination. Steve Jobs once said in a speech at Stanford University, “The journey is the reward.” He emphasized the importance of following one’s passion and finding joy in the process of pursuing one’s dreams rather than being solely focused on achieving specific goals. Thus, the journey catalyzes self-discovery and growth, ultimately bringing us greater happiness than the destination itself. 

In this context, Dr APJ Abdul Kalam has rightly said “You can’t change your future but you can change your habits and surely your habits will change your future”, changes made throughout the journey, therefore, help us reach our destination rather than an effort put in for a single day or single piece of work.

The path leading to our goals tests our resilience and provides opportunities for personal growth. It is by facing obstacles and overcoming them that we develop strength and character. The journey towards a goal offers invaluable opportunities for learning and adaptability. Along the way, individuals encounter obstacles, unexpected twists, and the need to make adjustments. These challenges become valuable learning experiences, fostering resilience and enhancing problem-solving skills. When faced with setbacks, individuals must adapt their strategies, think creatively, and find new ways to overcome hurdles. This process of adaptation and continuous learning not only propels them forward but also brings a sense of fulfilment and happiness.  In the journey of an entrepreneur after starting a business. They are challenged now and then, such as financial setbacks or competition, which may seem daunting. However, it is through navigating these hurdles that they learn valuable lessons, adapt their strategies, and ultimately grow both personally and professionally. Mandela’s journey was marked by personal growth, resilience, and a commitment to justice. While the destination of achieving a free and democratic South Africa was undoubtedly important to him, he found happiness in the process of fighting for what he believed in. Mandela embraced the journey of resistance, tirelessly working towards his vision of a more equitable society.

In the journey towards our goals, we connect with individuals who share similar aspirations and values. These connections foster a sense of camaraderie and support system, enhancing our overall happiness. For instance, a group of cadets in the National Defence Academy training to become officers in the Indian Army may form strong bonds as they motivate and inspire one another throughout their shared journey. The friendships formed and the sense of belonging they experience can enhance their happiness and fulfilment throughout the journey. Human connections are an integral part of the journey of life as humans are social animals. Also, these connections serve as pillars of strength during tough times, amplifying the joys of success and adding depth to our journey. Since it is the journey itself that enables us to create these lasting connections, the happiness we gain from them goes beyond the final destination.

We frequently grow obsessed on a particular road in our pursuit of predefined objectives that we often neglect the unexpected opportunities and results that may arise along the way. However, it is often these serendipitous moments that bring us the greatest joy and fulfilment. We enable ourselves to be steered by the flow of life by accepting ambiguity and being receptive to new possibilities. As an example, someone may start a project with a clear objective and destination in mind, only to discover new opportunities during the journey. It’s because they’re willing to take those unexpected turns in the road that they find joy in following their evolving dreams. Accepting the journey allows us to adjust, pivot, and explore new directions, leading to a richer and more rewarding life. Redefining success to include the happiness found in the journey itself liberates us from the narrow confines of reaching a specific destination. It empowers us to find fulfilment by pursuing our passions, embracing new experiences, and engaging wholeheartedly with the world around us.

“Enjoy the journey, because the destination is a mirage.”  ― Steven Furtick

Moreover, once an individual reaches the supposed happiness destination, it may not last, or something may get in the way of the perceived happiness that one thought it would bring. For example, after getting what you thought was your dream job, one actually discovered it brought in a lot of negative stress due to the additional workload and over-demanding new boss. That dream new apartment you bought? Well, the noisy neighbour’s upstairs are doing their best to destroy your peace. Just met your ‘perfect’ partner? You may soon discover all the things about them that test your patience daily. Chances are if you do reach one of your destination life goals, you will indeed feel happier – but only temporarily. We see in the above-mentioned instance that one’s happiness is momentary upon reaching the destination. Therefore, one should strive to source happiness throughout the journey by changing perspective and avoiding the illusion of the destination being the marker of happiness and success. Discovering your definition of success often helps to avoid getting entangled in society’s definition of success and happiness, which is a step forward in striving for true happiness in life.

But happiness isn’t just about getting to the end of the path. It’s about acknowledging and celebrating every milestone along the way. Milestones remind us of where we’ve been and give us a chance to reflect. When we take a moment to reflect on how far we’ve come, we feel a sense of accomplishment and gratitude. This helps us to believe that happiness is not just about getting to where you want to be, but about the journey you’re taking. In a world that often emphasizes instant gratification and quick results, it is crucial to remember that the journey is where the magic happens. It is where we find our strength by loving ourselves, discovering our passions, practising gratitude, by embracing the process, savouring the beauty of life etc.

 “Chances are if you do reach one of your destination life goals, you will indeed feel happier – but only temporarily.” 

In our relentless pursuit of destinations, we often overlook the true essence of happiness—the journey itself. It is crucial to recognize that the journey itself holds immense value. The growth, joy, resilience, connections, and reflection experienced throughout the process shape our lives and contribute to our overall well-being. If we stop looking for the end goal and start looking for the journey, we’ll be able to find joy in the here and now and create a more fulfilling life. As the renowned writer Ralph Waldo Emerson once said, “Life is a journey, not a destination.”  

Most often we are led to believe that by obtaining goals we will feel happier. But the reality is that when we reach those destinations, our happiness levels quickly return to their original set point. Indeed, happiness often leads to success, but success does not always lead to happiness. As the only consistent thing in life is change, believing that happiness is a destination rather than the journey makes little sense. It is therefore upon oneself to make the most out of it as we traverse through this beautiful journey called LIFE.

“Life is not a problem to be solved, but a reality to be experienced”