Is happiness really a choice?

Happiness 101: Is It Really a Choice? Ah, the million-dollar question. You’ve heard it before but is happiness really a choice? Can we decide whether we are happy or not?

Or is it something that comes and goes, beyond our control? Let’s dive into this age-old debate and explore if happiness is something we can choose or if it’s simply out of our hands.

The Argument For Happiness as a Choice

On one hand, there is a strong argument to be made that happiness is indeed a choice. We have more control over our emotions than we realize. We can choose to take action towards positive outcomes, which then leads to feelings of accomplishment, contentment, and joy. The power of positive thinking also plays an important role here; by controlling our thoughts and outlook on life, even during difficult times, we can make the conscious decision to be happy (or at least content).

The Argument Against Happiness as a Choice

On the other hand, many believe that happiness is not always within our control. Factors such as current events in the world around us and outside elements like financial stability play a huge role in how happy (or unhappy) someone feels day-to-day. We can't always control what happens to us in life - so how can we be expected to always choose happiness? Not only that, but some argue that true happiness isn’t something you “choose” but something you feel when all the pieces of your life fall into place and everything seems right with the world.