Photo by D Jonez, Unsplash.

We often connect our happiness to future goals. We tell ourselves that we will finally feel good when we finish a degree, such as a bachelor’s, master’s, or PhD. Or when we get a job at a big tech company. Or when we buy a second home. Or when we visit ten countries in Europe. These goals are great, but our happiness should not wait for them. Absolute joy comes from the things that we already have. Time with good friends. A healthy body. A supportive family. Access to the internet makes our work easier and gives us the freedom to work remotely. Higher quality of life because we no longer stand in long lines for basic tasks. Even small things like a warm morning coffee, a quiet walk, or learning something new every day can bring absolute pleasure.

Life becomes lighter when we stop waiting for one big moment to feel happy. We can still pursue our goals, but we can enjoy the path along the way.

If we miss the beauty of today, no future success will feel enough.