Intro

Happiness. It’s what we’re all chasing, right?

Whether it’s the thrill of a Friday night out or the quiet satisfaction of doing something meaningful, we all want to feel good about our lives.

But here’s the kicker: not all happiness is created equal.

If happiness were ice cream, one scoop might be a rich, indulgent chocolate fudge (hello, instant pleasure), and another might be a wholesome, homemade flavor that takes time to savor but leaves you feeling deeply satisfied.

These two “flavors” of happiness are known as hedonic and eudaimonic happiness.

In this blog post, we’ll break down what they are, why they matter, and how you can blend both to create a fulfilling life.

Ready? Grab your favorite cozy beverage and let’s dive in.

What Is Hedonic Happiness? The Pleasure Seeker’s Delight

Hedonic happiness is the kind of joy that comes from pleasure and comfort.

It’s like biting into a warm, gooey brownie or binge-watching your favorite Netflix series after a long day.

It’s instant, it’s gratifying, and it makes you feel good right now.

Think of it as the sprint of happiness. You get a quick burst of joy, but it doesn’t necessarily last. Examples include:

• Enjoying a delicious meal.
• Taking a relaxing bubble bath.
• Buying that outfit you’ve been eyeing.

Hedonic happiness often gets a bad rap because it’s associated with materialism or short-term thinking.

But here’s the thing: it’s not bad! In fact, it’s essential for self-care. Life’s little pleasures can recharge your batteries and help you get through tough times.

Imagine you’re a car.

Hedonic happiness is like topping up your fuel tank. It keeps you running.

But is it enough to go the distance? That’s where eudaimonic happiness comes in.

What Is Eudaimonic Happiness? The Soul’s Satisfaction

Eudaimonic happiness is all about meaning and purpose. 

Instead of seeking instant gratification, it’s about doing things that align with your values and make you feel fulfilled in the long run.

Think of it as planting a tree and watching it grow.

Here are some examples:

• Volunteering for a cause you’re passionate about.
• Building meaningful relationships.
• Learning a new skill that challenges you.
• Pursuing a long-term goal like writing a book or training for a marathon.

Eudaimonic happiness is like the marathon of joy.

It’s not always easy, and sometimes it feels like hard work. But when you cross the finish line, the sense of accomplishment is unmatched.

If hedonic happiness fuels your car, eudaimonic happiness is the engine. It’s what drives you forward and gives your journey a purpose.

Why You Need Both Types of Happiness

Here’s the truth: life isn’t about choosing one type of happiness over the other.

It’s about finding a balance.

Hedonic and eudaimonic happiness are like two sides of the same coin, and together, they create a full, rich life.

Imagine you’re baking a cake.

Hedonic happiness is the sweet frosting — it’s delicious and makes the cake instantly appealing.

Eudaimonic happiness is the cake itself — the foundation that gives it substance. Without the frosting, the cake might feel a little bland.

But without the cake, the frosting won’t satisfy you for long.

In other words, you need both to thrive.

Hedonic and Eudaimonic Happiness in Self-Care

Self-care isn’t just about face masks and spa days (though those are fabulous).

It’s also about investing in yourself in ways that bring lasting fulfillment.

Let’s explore how you can incorporate both types of happiness into your self-care routine.

Hedonic Self-Care: Treat Yourself

This is your permission slip to indulge. Hedonic self-care is all about the little things that bring you joy in the moment. Some ideas:

• Have a “me day”: Watch your favorite movie, order takeout, and wear your comfiest pajamas.
• Splurge a little: Buy that fancy candle or book the massage you’ve been wanting.
• Savor the moment: Enjoy a sunset, listen to your favorite song, or relish the first sip of coffee in the morning.

These small pleasures remind you that life is worth enjoying. They might not change your life, but they can change your mood — and sometimes, that’s all you need.

Eudaimonic Self-Care: Invest in Your Growth

This is where the deeper work comes in. Eudaimonic self-care might not feel as glamorous, but it’s incredibly rewarding. Some ideas:

• Set meaningful goals: Write down what you want to achieve and take small steps toward it.
• Cultivate relationships: Spend quality time with loved ones or make an effort to connect with new people.
• Learn something new: Take a class, read a book, or explore a hobby you’ve always wanted to try.
• Give back: Volunteer, mentor someone, or donate to a cause that matters to you.

These actions help you build a life that feels authentic and purposeful. They’re like planting seeds that will grow into a garden over time.

Finding Your Balance

Now that you know about these two types of happiness, how do you balance them? Here’s a simple framework to help:

1. Listen to Your Needs

Ask yourself:

• Am I feeling burned out and in need of a quick pick-me-up? That’s a sign you might need some hedonic happiness.
• Am I feeling stuck or unfulfilled? That’s a clue to focus on eudaimonic happiness.

Think of it as checking your inner weather. Sunny days might call for a bit of fun; rainy days might inspire deeper reflection.

2. Plan Your “Happiness Menu”

Create a list of activities for both types of happiness. For example:

Hedonic Menu:

• Enjoy a chocolate treat.
• Take a nap.
• Watch a comedy special.

Eudaimonic Menu:

• Write in a gratitude journal.
• Volunteer at a shelter.
• Have a deep conversation with a friend.

Keep this menu handy and pick what resonates with you in the moment.

3. Schedule Time for Both

Just like you schedule meetings or errands, make time for happiness. For example:

• Dedicate Friday nights to hedonic activities like watching a movie or treating yourself to dessert.
• Set aside Sunday mornings for eudaimonic pursuits like planning your week or reflecting on your goals.

By intentionally carving out time for both, you’ll create a routine that feels balanced and fulfilling.

Why This Matters for Wellness

Happiness isn’t just a “nice-to-have” — it’s a cornerstone of wellness. Studies show that:

• Hedonic happiness can reduce stress and improve your mood in the short term.
• Eudaimonic happiness is linked to better physical health, longevity, and resilience.

When you combine the two, you’re setting yourself up for a life that feels both enjoyable and meaningful. And isn’t that what wellness is all about?

In Conclusion: Your Happiness Recipe

Think of hedonic and eudaimonic happiness as two ingredients in your personal recipe for joy.

One adds sweetness; the other adds depth.

ogether, they create something truly satisfying.

So, the next time you’re feeling down, ask yourself: do I need a quick pick-me-up or something more meaningful?

Whether it’s indulging in your favorite treat or pursuing a long-term goal, remember that both types of happiness are valid and valuable.

Now go out there and create your unique blend of happiness. You’ve got this!