Comes Quote by Nathaniel Hawthorne
“Happiness in this world, when it comes, comes incidentally. Make it the object of pursuit, and it leads us a wild-goose chase, and is never attained.”
About This Quote
Source Novel: The Scarlet Letter, 1850
Chasing happiness directly often leads to frustration; it is better to let it arise naturally.
In simple terms: Pursuing happiness directly fails.
Key Takeaway
Allow happiness to emerge.
Themes
happiness
pursuit
contentment
Mood
thoughtful
calm
Type
philosophical
inspirational
When to use this quote
- mental health
- relationship building
- spiritual practice
- goal setting
Key Concepts
philosophy of desire
mindfulness
acceptance
Questions to Reflect On
- What does happiness look like for you?
- How can you cultivate contentment without chasing?
A Different Perspective
May promote passivity.
