Introduction: The Art of Balancing Happiness

Have you ever wondered why some moments of joy feel fleeting while others leave a lasting impact on your well-being? Aristotle’s philosophy (that has now been verified) offers a timeless perspective on happiness: the balance between hedonia (short-term pleasure) and eudaimonia (long-term fulfilment). Both play a crucial role in our lives, but striking the right balance is key to sustainable happiness.

In this blog post, we’ll break down these concepts, explain their significance, and share how to apply them: the ultimate secret for long-term well-being.

Hedonia: The Joy of the Present Moment
  • Definition: Hedonia refers to immediate pleasures, such as enjoying a delicious meal, relaxing after a hard day, or having fun with friends.
  • Importance: These moments bring joy and help you recharge. However, relying solely on hedonia can lead to a lack of deeper fulfilment or cause suffering later on.
Eudaimonia: The Path to Long-Term Fulfillment
  • Definition: Eudaimonia is about living a meaningful life by pursuing growth, purpose, and delayed gratification. It’s deeply tied to personal development.
  • Importance: Focusing only on eudaimonia can sometimes feel overwhelming or rigid, as it often involves delayed gratification and consistent effort.
Balancing Both for Sustainable Well-Being

The secret to long-term happiness lies in balancing hedonia and eudaimonia. Overindulgence in short-term pleasures can leave you feeling empty, while excessive focus on long-term goals can cause burnout.

  • Practical Tip: Reflect on your current balance. Are you neglecting one in favor of the other? Small adjustments can make a big difference.
How to Apply Aristotle’s Philosophy
  • Combine pleasure with purpose:
    • Enjoy a good meal (hedonia) while connecting with loved ones (eudaimonia).
    • Take breaks to recharge while working toward long-term goals.
  • Reflect and track your progress. Tools like the becoming her Planner allow you to evaluate whether your actions align with your values and priorities.
Create Your Unique Balance

The degree to which you balance hedonia and eudaimonia depends on your personality and circumstances. The key is to recognize what works for you and adjust accordingly. Listen to our podcast episode, “Encontrar o equilíbrio e ‘felicidade’ a longo prazo,” for more insights and practical advice.