happiness = reality - expectation

The pursuit of happiness has been a problem for humans since our origin. Whether you're wealthy/poor, successful/unsuccessful, be single/married, none of these parts of life seem to dictate happiness. They definitely help, but still don't provide the happiness we crave. It ironically feels like our ancestors were happier than we were. So what does? People often state that success is relative, and so is happiness. The magical equation for happiness is just reality - expectation, and unique for everyone. This is why having misaligned expectations in life (and really any faced of life) is dangerous. The most common misconception is that being successful and making a lot of money leads to extensive happiness. Reality consists of: - Money - Health - Family - Your parents, siblings, wife, kids; etc. - Relationships - Achievements - Occupation - Day to day life and fulfillment - Materialism - Reputation - Experiences - Trauma - Grievances - Insecurities Your expectations are a future modeling of the variables impacting reality. People live off the happiness attached to their expectations, not the pillars that will dictate their happiness. This is why you can make a shit ton of money, but if you feel lost and lonely you won't be happy. Ambition can usually be paradoxical in that it extremely raises the expectations, which raises the floor at which your reality has to be across all pillars to be happy. You can be happier by lowering expectations and maximizing reality. This is why people who unconditionally do things, are humble, ambitious, and charismatic typically are the happiest people. The unhappiest people tend to be self-centered, chasing money / fame, and seeking validation. Consider these variables before big decision, to hold yourself accountable, and set daily routines. Retaining the variables in your present / setting goals for the variables are what will maximize your happiness as you pursue ambitious paths.