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"آدم‌های خودخواه برای رسیدن به خوشبختی عجله دارند و به خوشبختی دیگران فکر نمی‌کنند."

George Eliot
George Eliot Novelist
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Quote meaning
Some people are so focused on their own happiness that they don't even consider the happiness of others. It's like they're in a race, rushing to grab every bit of joy for themselves without stopping to think about how their actions might affect those around them.

This idea isn't new. Throughout history, we've seen how a selfish pursuit of happiness can lead to problems. Take the industrial revolution, for example. Factory owners were so eager to make profits and improve their own lives that they didn't pause to consider the well-being of their workers. Long hours, terrible working conditions, and child labor were rampant. The owners were happy—rich, even—but at what cost? The workers' happiness and well-being were completely disregarded. This led to significant social issues and eventually the push for labor laws and workers' rights. It was only when people started considering the happiness of others that things began to improve.

Now, let’s break it down into a more relatable scenario. Imagine you have a friend who always chooses the restaurant when you go out. They pick their favorite spots every time, completely ignoring your preferences. Sure, they’re happy—they love the food and the ambiance. But you? Maybe you’re not so thrilled. Over time, this starts to bother you. Your friend's single-minded pursuit of their own happiness is damaging your relationship.

To put this wisdom into practice in your own life, start by taking small pauses. When you’re making decisions, think about how they might impact others. It doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice your happiness entirely, but a little consideration goes a long way. If you’re choosing a movie, for example, consider what everyone else might enjoy instead of always picking your top choice.

Here’s a story to illustrate the concept. Imagine you’re at a family gathering. You’ve had a long week and just want to relax and watch the game. But your grandma, who you don't see very often, is sitting alone, wanting to chat. You could ignore her and focus on your own need to unwind. Or, you could take a moment to consider her happiness. By sitting down to talk with her, you’re not just making her day—you might find that you enjoy the conversation and feel good about making her happy. It’s a win-win.

In short, taking the time to consider others' happiness doesn’t mean you’re missing out on your own. Quite the opposite, actually. By creating a balance, you build stronger relationships and a more supportive environment. So next time you’re making a decision, big or small, take a moment to step back and think—how will this affect those around me? You’ll likely find that putting a little thought into others' happiness can bring a deeper, more fulfilling joy to your own life.
Related tags
Altruism Compassion Consideration Empathy Happiness Mindfulness Relationships Selfishness Thoughtfulness
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