The Pleasure-Purpose Principle

Dear Looking,

Congratulations on thoughtfully considering “what’s next” for you! Many people simply drift through life. You’re curious and want to be decisive. 

According to Paul Dolan, author of Happiness by Design, to be truly happy (and less lonely), you need to feel both pleasure and purpose (fun and meaning). Dolan calls this the Pleasure-Purpose Principle - the PPP. He says you may require different degrees of each at different times. 

Let’s unpack this concept starting with two definitions. Hedonism is the pursuit of happiness via sensory pleasure and comforts. In your email, you called this “fun.” 

Eudaemonism is the pursuit of happiness through efforts to live a virtuous life and become a better person. You called this “meaningful activity.” There’s evidence to show that living well means balancing these two aims.

Experts like Dolan say that if we choose one to the exclusion of the other, we can end up feeling like we’re missing out, which can cause anxiety, depression and even chronic disease. 

So how do you know when you’re living the PPP life? One way is to think back to a time when you had an experience that provided a sense of both pleasure and purpose.

In my gardening days, for instance, I enjoyed being outside, growing something from seeds, and enjoying the beauty of vegetables and flowers at their peak. Putting fresh food and flowers on the table, or giving them away, felt meaningful.

Similarly, when I write, I find pleasure by using my mind and seeing something creative fill the page. I also find meaning when I use my writing to make a difference in the lives of others. Make sense?

What gives you pleasure? What gives you a sense of purpose? What’s something you can do that will combine the two? Or what are two things you can do to create balance in your life?

You seem like a thoughtful person who is looking for an answer. I have confidence you’ll find it. Enjoy the process of looking.