The One Thing Keeping You From Being Happy

Summary

The article discusses how the ego's insatiable nature prevents one from finding lasting happiness in achievements or possessions, emphasizing the importance of living in the present moment as a path to true fulfillment.

Abstract

The article "The One Thing Keeping You From Being Happy" delves into the concept of the ego as an obstacle to happiness, as described by Eckhart Tolle. It suggests that the ego is never satisfied for long, constantly pushing individuals to seek more, which leads to a cycle of temporary satisfaction followed by a quick return to dissatisfaction. The author shares personal experiences of feeling unsatisfied despite achieving promotions and other goals, highlighting the ego's role in this perpetual discontent. The solution proposed involves becoming aware of the ego's influence and learning to live in the present moment, which is where true life exists, according to Tolle. By exiting the ego's state of consciousness and embracing the now, one can break free from the cycle of waiting and yearning for the next achievement.

Opinions

The ego is identified as a driving force behind the endless pursuit of more, leading to a lack of lasting satisfaction from achievements.
The author reflects on their own experiences, recognizing the ego's role in their dissatisfaction despite professional successes.
Tolle's philosophy is referenced to suggest that the present moment holds the key to escaping the ego's trap.
The article posits that awareness of the ego and conscious presence in the now are essential for finding true happiness.
It is argued that common societal virtues like determination and goal setting may actually be manifestations of the ego's restlessness.
The article encourages readers to practice being present, as opposed to constantly waiting for future events, to experience genuine aliveness.

Your Ego is Never Satisfied

Take a moment to remember a time you attained a goal or something you wanted… now, how long did it take until it no longer satisfied you?

For most, it’s not long.

It’s not long until you want more and looking for more. This is what Mr. Eckhart Tolle refers to as The Ego.

“Nothing satisfies The Ego for long” — Eckhart Tolle

I remember a time at the start of my career when I received a promotion, and almost instantly, I was thinking, “but I want the next grade and a higher salary.” It surprised me at how unsatisfied I felt having received the promotion because I wanted more. And it has happened numerous times over the years.

The moment I get the thing I’m looking for, I start looking for the next step, the next raise, the next win, and so on.

Some may call this determination, passion, goal setting, etc. But I like Tolle’s version of it. It’s The Ego.

It’s a constant illusion of seeking fulfillment in the future. You overlook the most important thing you have — the present moment.

How do we stop this?

1. Start with awareness. Be aware it is your ego that is never satisfied for long.

2. Live in the present moment. When you are in the NOW, you exit the Ego State of Consciousness. The Ego resists the present moment. For example, when you are waiting for something or someone, you don’t want to be in this moment.

“Why not practice being, instead of waiting. Feel that you are alive.” — Eckhart Tolle

The One Thing Keeping You From Being Happy

Your Ego is Never Satisfied

How do we stop this?

There is no life apart from now.