Caught 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. Follow some other object, and very possibly we may find that we have caught happiness without dreaming of it.”
About This Quote
Pursuing happiness directly often leads to frustration; it’s better to focus on other goals, which may bring happiness unexpectedly.
In simple terms: Chasing happiness can be futile.
Seek purpose, not happiness itself.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- career goals
- relationships
- creative endeavors
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- What activities bring you joy without effort?
- How can you align purpose with happiness?
Happiness may still be elusive if underlying issues remain.