Simply Happy, Modestly
“If we were all given by magic the power to read each other’s thoughts, I suppose the first effect would be that almost all friendships would be dissolved.” - Bertrand Russell
The egocentric pull has always been great, luring us away from what really matters. Long before the web, before the mobile social collective sharing of insipid details to great accomplishments, Russell warned a self-absorbed habit of thinking of oneself as compared to others would be a fatal one.
During a time in which the mass digital sharing of and ongoing feedback after an event becomes more satisfying than the act itself, the pull grows stronger.
Today, all are empowered with digital tools to pursue wealth, fame, and happiness. But while witnessing the evolution of others’ successes can be inspiring, it can also inspire envy.
If happiness, as Russell claims, comes from enjoying pleasures you have, doing the work you must do, and avoiding constant evaluation of yourself as compared to those you imagine (maybe falsely) more fortunate than yourself, then surely there’s a downside to 24/7 digitized social sharing and feel good feedback loops.
If happiness lies in these questions:
Are you humble? Are you caring?
Then it seems obvious a perhaps natural egocentric preoccupation with oneself accelerated by constant public sharing and approval will not breed happiness.
For you of course know you are superior to most everyone else. You are you! But wouldn’t life be just as wonderful regardless?
