Have you ever wondered about that phrase – “guilty pleasures “? I mean, if the purpose of life is for you to be happy, then why would what brings you pleasure be something to be guilty about – it doesn’t make sense, does it?
Well, actually it does. Because there is a world of difference between pleasure and happiness. True happiness doesn’t come with a fear of being discovered. It’s that feeling of inner peace that all is well with the world – and if it isn’t, then you can make it so. In the excellent film “The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel”, the hero has a simple view on life: “everything will be alright in the end. And if it is not alright already, then it is not yet the end!” That’s a great philosophy for happiness.
So if pleasure doesn’t bring you happiness, what does? My theory is: it’s enjoyment.
Now, a lot of people will ask “But that’s the same as pleasure, isn’t it?” And I’d say no, it emphatically is not.
Pleasure is transitory, to do with the physical side of life, its felt with the body. The sensuous slither down the throat of a hot gooey pudding. Warm sun on a glistening body on the beach . A cold beer hitting the spot after sweaty encounter in the field of sport. Enjoyment, on the other hand, is more lasting, it relates more to the spiritual side of things, its felt with the soul. The warmth of a close family around the dinner table, the relaxation of a long walk getting back to nature, the cleansing silence of a deep meditation.
The clue is in the name: en-joy-ment. Something that brings you lasting joy, not just fleeting pleasure. When you spend meaningful time on activities that make you joyful, and that you are proud to be seen doing, how can you possibly avoid being happy?
