2025.04.07

Searching for Happiness from the Self Inside ~ Alan's Theory of Happiness

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Alain, real name Émile = Auguste Chartier's "Theory of Happiness" published in 1925 is a masterpiece that has not lost its brilliance and has been passed down to many people even today, nearly 100 years after its publication.

Article Contents

Alan's "Theory of Happiness" ~ Universal wisdom that continues to shine through the ages
- What is happiness? Alan's core argument

Alan's "Theory of Happiness" ~ Universal wisdom that continues to shine through the ages

A philosopher and teacher, Alan's words offer a practical perspective rooted in everyday life, rather than abstract theories. The book is organized in the form of 93 short chapters, each of which is written in such a way that it serves as food for independent thought.

What is happiness? Alan's core argument

Alan's consistent argument throughout the book is that happiness is something that can be created from within, not by external circumstances or circumstances. We tend to look for happiness in external conditions, such as financial success, social status, or good relationships.

However, Alan points out that true happiness cannot be achieved as long as it depends on such external conditions. This is because external conditions are constantly fluctuating and beyond our control.

Alan's focus is on controlling one's inner state, one's emotions and thoughts, and acting on one's own will. He states that "it is easy to be unhappy, but to be happy requires a definite effort."

This suggests that happiness does not come naturally, but is something that we actively create. This perspective resonates deeply with the idea of "self-efficacy" in modern psychology, which emphasizes the feeling that "I can do it."

Controlling Emotions ~ The First Step to Happiness

Alan emphasizes the importance of recognizing the nature of emotions that can easily dominate human beings and facing them with self-will.

He is particularly wary of "moods" and exclaims, "Being swept away by moods, if left untreated, will lead people to unhappiness."

We are often at the mercy of our emotions, which can result in unnecessarily depressed or angry outbursts. However, Alan explains that the key to happiness is not just to be swept away by emotions, but to develop the ability to observe and control them objectively.

This idea has something in common with modern cognitive-behavioral therapy. In cognitive-behavioral therapy, emotions are closely related to thoughts, and it is believed that emotions can be controlled by changing thoughts. It can be said that Alan's words already foresaw such modern psychological findings about 100 years ago.

Happiness Goes Beyond Personal Satisfaction

Alan doesn't see happiness as anything more than just "personal satisfaction." He refers to the impact of individual happiness on society as a whole, going so far as to say that "being happy is also a contribution to others."

It is based on the idea that our efforts to be happy are not just for ourselves, but also have a positive impact on those around us.

This perspective shows that Alan had a deep understanding of relationships with others and believed that it was important for character development and the foundation of well-being.

Happy people also give positive energy to those around them and are the driving force behind building a better society.

Alan saw happiness as a social responsibility that enriches both the individual and society.

Alan's Practical Approach: Laughing, Living in the Present

Alan's theory of happiness is not limited to abstract theories, but contains very practical content.

For example, he argues that "laughing" is a favorable behavior that attracts a sense of happiness, and introduces the idea of reversal, "People do not laugh because they are happy, but laughing leads to happiness."

This idea was later supported by empirical studies by many psychologists, and is now attracting attention as part of behavioral therapy.

In addition, Alan has a deep affinity with the concept of "mindfulness," which is gaining traction in modern times.

He explains that the essence of happiness is "to focus on the present and find small joys in the moment, without being distracted by the past or the future."

By focusing on the here and now, rather than being trapped in the past or anxious about the future, we can become aware of the joy and beauty hidden in our daily lives.

Alan's argument is consistent with the core elements of modern psychology, such as the practice of gratitude and the affirmation of the present, and can be seen as a pioneer in articulating the importance of mindfulness living some 100 years ago.

Creativity and Effort ~ The Path to Self-Realization

Alan believed that self-expression and continuous effort bring a sense of fulfillment and contentment, which in turn has a significant impact on lifelong happiness.

We can increase our self-esteem and find meaning in life by creating something or striving towards a goal. Alan emphasizes the importance of believing in one's inner strength and being proactive, even in the face of difficulties.

For example, Alan's point of view, "The way to overcome the storms of life is to adjust your own inner weather," is a phrase that still resonates very much today.

We can't change our external circumstances, but we can control our state of mind. This perspective teaches us to keep our minds balanced in the face of great difficulties and to have the power to create our own path to happiness.

Resonance with Positive Psychology

Alan's theory of happiness is also closely related to the study of modern positive psychology. Martin Seligman, who is considered the founder of positive psychology, advocates the concept of happiness called "Flourish," which seems to reflect Alan's philosophy.

Seligman's five components of happiness (good relationships, meaning, engagement, achievement, and positive emotions) are reminiscent of Alan's vision of self-realization, inner peace, and the importance of social connection.

For example, Alan's idea that "happiness is an obligation to others" is consistent with Seligman's idea of the importance of "good relationships."

In addition, Alan's emphasis on "self-expression" and "effort" overlap with factors such as "engagement" and "achievement." It can be said that the validity of Alan's ideas is supported by modern psychological research.

The Universality of the Theory of Happiness ~ A Message to Those of Us Living in the Modern Age

Even today, nearly 100 years after its publication, The Theory of Happiness has not lost its universal value. Although it is a short chapter, each sentence is full of deep insight, and each re-read brings a different and new insight.

Especially for all those who pursue happiness, Alan's words function as universal and practical.

Alan emphasizes the importance of having a perspective of "enjoying the rain instead of waiting for it to stop." The message is that we should not just endure difficulties and adversity in life, but rather see them as opportunities to learn and grow.

This positive attitude will be a great encouragement for those of us who live in the modern world.

Alan's Theory of Happiness is not just a book about how to be happy. It is also a philosophical book that asks how we should live and what the meaning of life is.

Modern society is an environment where information is overloaded and constantly changing, and it is easy to feel stress and anxiety. That's why Alan's words give us the opportunity to stop and reflect, to think about what true happiness is.

Summary ~ The future illuminated by Alan's words

Alan's Theory of Happiness continues to be a light in the reader's daily life in any era. Its universal message will be a powerful guidepost for us to overcome difficulties and pursue happiness in our own way.

By listening to Alan's words and listening to our hearts, we should be able to live a richer and more fulfilling life. Alan's teachings are both the wisdom of the past and the light of hope for the future.

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