Happiness is a complex and nuanced concept, and whether or not to chase it is a personal decision. Here are some things to consider when deciding whether or not to chase happiness:
Happiness is not a constant state: It is normal for feelings of happiness to fluctuate, and it is not healthy to expect to always be happy.
Happiness is not something that can be achieved through external means: It's important to recognize that happiness is not something that can be achieved through material possessions or external validation. That next big promotion, a big house, a raise (just to name a few), will not bring you lasting happiness. It comes from within.
Pursuit of happiness can lead to disappointment: When we set unrealistic expectations or focus too much on happiness as the ultimate goal, we may be setting ourselves up for disappointment.
Happiness can be found in other emotions: Positive emotions such as contentment, peace, and fulfillment are also important and valuable.
Happiness can come from pursuing other goals: Focusing on other goals such as personal growth, self-care, and relationships can bring a sense of fulfillment and happiness.
Happiness can also come from assessing your values and setting goals that are in alignment with your values.
Ultimately, it's important to find a balance between pursuing happiness and accepting that it is not always possible or necessary to feel happy. It's a good idea to focus on taking care of yourself, setting realistic goals, and enjoying the journey, rather than just focusing on the end goal of happiness.
It's also important to remember that if you're struggling with persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness or helplessness, it's important to seek professional help. These feelings can be symptoms of depression and should be treated as such.