"How to gain, how to keep, how to recover happiness is in fact for most men at all times the secret motive of all they do, and of all they are willing to endure"
- William James
About this Quote
This quote by William James suggests that the pursuit of happiness is the driving force behind all of our actions and decisions. He suggests that we are continuously striving to acquire, keep, and recuperate joy, and that we are willing to sustain whatever it takes to accomplish it. This could suggest that we are willing to take dangers, make sacrifices, and strive in order to attain our goals and discover contentment. It could likewise suggest that we are willing to put in the effort to maintain our current level of joy, or to regain it if we have lost it. Eventually, this quote recommends that the pursuit of joy is an essential part of the human experience.
"The man who makes everything that leads to happiness depends upon himself, and not upon other men, has adopted the very best plan for living happily. This is the man of moderation, the man of manly character and of wisdom"