Written by Tan Chrissis, Speaker and Mindset Coach
Tan Chrissis is a Speaker and Mindset coach, serving as the CEO of CognitiveVerse, a platform dedicated to personal growth and cognitive wellness.
In today’s fast-paced, success-driven world, we are constantly told that happiness comes from external achievements, money, status, and recognition. The modern economy thrives on our desire to accumulate, to chase the next big promotion, the next luxurious vacation, or the next milestone that society deems worthy. But despite these pursuits, many find themselves feeling empty, burnt out, and disconnected from what truly brings them joy.
This is where Epicurean philosophy provides a much-needed perspective shift. Epicurus, an ancient Greek philosopher, argued that true happiness doesn’t come from wealth or fame but from simplicity, meaningful relationships, and inner peace. His teachings offer a powerful alternative to modern materialism and can help us redefine what it means to live a fulfilling life in today’s world.
The illusion of success: Money and fame as false promises
One of the biggest misconceptions in our society is the belief that wealth equals fulfillment. Many people assume that once they achieve financial success, they will automatically attain happiness. However, studies consistently show that after a certain point, enough to meet one’s basic needs, more money does not equate to increased life satisfaction.
Similarly, fame, which is often perceived as the pinnacle of achievement, comes with its own set of burdens: lack of privacy, constant scrutiny, and the pressure to maintain an image. Many celebrities and high-profile entrepreneurs speak openly about their struggles with anxiety, depression, and isolation despite their seemingly perfect lives.
Epicurus would argue that these pursuits are distractions from what truly matters. Instead of seeking happiness in external validation, he taught that we should focus on inner tranquility, self-sufficiency, and the joy of simple pleasures.
Returning to our true nature: What really brings happiness
Epicurus believed that the key to a fulfilling life lies in distinguishing between necessary and unnecessary desires:
Necessary desires: These include food, shelter, friendship, and peace of mind. These are fundamental to our well-being and should be prioritized.
Unnecessary desires: Wealth, luxury, and excessive indulgence. While not inherently bad, they often create anxiety, competition, and endless dissatisfaction.
In today’s world, we are conditioned to believe that we need more success, more recognition, and more possessions. But at our core, humans are happiest when we feel safe, loved, and at peace.
Imagine a moment when you were truly happy. Was it because of an expensive car or because you shared laughter with a close friend? Was it because of a prestigious job title or because you felt a deep sense of purpose in your work? When we strip away external pressures, we realize that happiness is found in experiences, relationships, and moments of inner stillness.
Balancing material success with inner fulfillment
Does this mean we should reject financial success altogether? Not at all. Money is a tool; it provides security, comfort, and opportunities. The problem arises when we confuse financial success with life satisfaction. Epicurus advocated for moderation: enjoy material comforts but don’t become enslaved by them.
Here’s how to apply Epicurean wisdom in today’s world:
Redefine success: Instead of measuring success by wealth and status, define it based on your values, relationships, and personal growth. Ask yourself: What truly makes me happy? What kind of life do I want to build?
Cultivate meaningful relationships: Epicurus considered friendship one of the greatest sources of happiness. In our hyper-digital world, genuine human connection is more valuable than ever. Invest in real relationships, not just professional networks.
Prioritize simplicity: You don’t need extravagant things to be happy. Focus on what genuinely brings you peace and joy. Whether it’s nature, reading, or time with loved ones, embrace the pleasures that don’t come with a price tag.
Detach from social expectations: Society often dictates what success should look like, but your fulfillment is personal. You don’t have to conform to the mainstream definition of achievement.
Use money wisely: Money should support your happiness, not control it. Instead of chasing status symbols, invest in experiences, health, and long-term well-being.
Conclusion: A life well-lived
In an era dominated by consumerism and economic pressures, Epicurean wisdom reminds us that true wealth lies in a life well-lived. While financial stability is important, our deepest happiness comes from freedom from anxiety, meaningful relationships, and the ability to enjoy life’s simple pleasures.
By aligning our lives with what truly matters rather than chasing external validation, we create a sustainable path to joy, one that isn’t dependent on material success but is rooted in self-awareness and authentic fulfillment.
So the next time you find yourself caught in the race for more, pause and ask: Am I chasing happiness, or am I chasing an illusion?
Read more from Tan Chrissis
Tan Chrissis, Speaker and Mindset Coach
Tan Chrissis is a visionary leader in cognitive wellness and personal growth. As the founder and CEO of CognitiveVerse, he has developed innovative tools to enhance mental performance and unlock human potential. Tan’s expertise spans cognitive strategies, digital innovation, and lifelong learning, empowering individuals and organizations to thrive in a fast-evolving world. Through his work, he aims to inspire others to achieve clarity, creativity, and growth.
