Hedonic Adaptation

It is the tendency to go back to your normal level of happiness after a positive or a negative event.

We work toward a promotion or a specific number of followers on Twitter because we think it will make us happy. But when we reach our goals, we are satisfied for a short time only to get back to our usual level of happiness.

Most of us focus on setting big goals, such as working towards a college degree, running a marathon, or getting a promotion. We spend much time working towards the goal that will only make us happy for a short while before we return to our normal happiness levels.

Instead, set smaller goals to experience more frequent moments of happiness.

Don't just look forward to the outcome. If you're a writer, don't merely aim for publishing a book. Enjoy writing it. Or, if you're trying to lose weight, instead of only looking at the scale, enjoy feeling stronger and fitter. 

If you don't enjoy the process, it is possible that you are chasing the wrong goal.

Studies show that strong ties with family, friends, and a broader community is an indicator of long-term happiness and health. 

It does not mean that we should not pursue big goals, but we should also make time to attend to our relationships.