Anxious Quote by Oliver Burkeman
“The effort to feel happy is often precisely the thing that makes us miserable. And that it is out constant efforts to eliminate the negative - insecurity, uncertainty, failure, or sadness - that is what causes us to feel so insecure, anxious, uncertain, or unhappy.”
About This Quote
Source Book: The Antidote: Happiness for People Who Can't Stand Positive Thinking, Oliver Burkeman, 2019
Chasing happiness directly often creates anxiety and discontent; accepting negative emotions reduces suffering.
In simple terms: Trying hard to be happy can make you unhappy.
Key Takeaway
Accept feelings without forcing happiness.
Themes
happiness
acceptance
psychology
Mood
reflective
calm
Type
philosophical
inspirational
When to use this quote
- therapy sessions
- daily meditation
- stressful work environments
- relationship conflicts
Key Concepts
mindfulness
negative affect
paradox of desire
Questions to Reflect On
- What emotions are you resisting?
- How can you sit with discomfort?
A Different Perspective
It may ignore structural causes of unhappiness.
