Searching for Happiness

By Scott J. Friedman

The title of this article in no way indicates I am suffering from a lack of happiness or an abundance of sadness. Even though cancer and its treatment left me with an unusual voice, poor vision, worse hearing, an inability to walk a straight line, and little ability to balance, neither cancer nor its treatment affected my sense of humor, determination to succeed, interest in learning, commitment to family and friends, optimistic view of the world, or passion for life. The title simply indicates my belief that it is possible to journey from one level of happiness to a higher level of happiness.

Although I imagine a happier future for all of us, I had trouble imagining the process of moving from one level of happiness to a higher level of happiness. Perhaps, you face the same challenge – you like the comfort and stability of the status quo, but you know in your heart and mind a higher level of happiness is possible.

Many years ago, when I was applying for jobs at a college career fair, several recruiters asked questions about where I would be in 5 or 10 years. At the time, I thought the question pertained to work, but I now believe the question pertains to factors other than work such as happiness.

Where will you be in terms of happiness 5 or 10 years from now, and how will you succeed?