Happiness Quote by Terryl L. Givens
““The secret of happiness is this: let your interests be as wide as possible,” he said. He then made his point with the simple example of a taste for strawberries. “There is no abstract and impersonal proof either that strawberries are good or that they are not good. To the man who likes them they are good, to the man who dislikes them they are not. But the man who likes them has a pleasure which the other does not have; to that extent his life is more enjoyable and he is better adapted to the world in which both must live. . . . The more things a man is interested in, the more opportunities of happiness he has.””
About This Quote
Source Book: The Philosophy of Happiness, Terryl L. Givens, 1995
Happiness grows when we cultivate many diverse interests, giving us richer experiences and greater adaptability.
In simple terms: Broad interests increase joy and adaptability.
Key Takeaway
Cultivate varied interests for a fuller life.
Themes
happiness
interest
adaptability
joy
Mood
optimistic
reflective
Type
motivational
philosophical
When to use this quote
- career development
- hobbies
- travel
- learning new skills
- social connections
Key Concepts
pluralism
psychology
well‑being
Questions to Reflect On
- What new interest could you explore this month?
- How do diverse interests shape your identity?
A Different Perspective
Too many interests can dilute focus and lead to superficial engagement.
![“the biblical scholar Richard Elliott Friedman notes that “probably the most remarkable difference of all” in disparate passages “is their different ways of picturing God.” Some depict “a deity who can regret things that he has done ([Gen.] 6:6, 7), . . . a deity who can be ‘grieved to his heart’…” quote by Terryl L. Givens](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/2ae/terryl-l-givens-20241_bible_the-biblical-scholar-richard-elliott-fri_292417.jpg)
