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Everybody's brain is wired differently (and infused with a different cocktail of chemicals). For me, controlling my emotions brings a sense of inner calm -- ha

Everybody's brain is wired differently (and infused with a different cocktail of chemicals). For me, controlling my emotions brings a sense of inner calm -- happiness. There is nothing better than thinking with a clear head, without being dogged by feelings of anger, anxiety, jealousy, fear or sadness.

sukilot 11y ago
Often happiness, thrill, arousal is better than thinking with a clear head.
- sirclueless 11y ago
  Are they? To me it seems obvious that if one is seeking those emotions actively, then one will be disappointed or worse if they prove unattainable. For whatever reason, be it psychological or physiological, it is clear that humans cannot maintain a perpetual high. The serotonin is expended, the stimulant wears off, unhealthy dependencies on emotional states are created. An even keel is worth any number of highs in my opinion. The goal should not be an emotion or a high-water mark, but rather to make progress. Progress is tangible, you can hang your hat on it and be proud of it, and most importantly it's available to you no matter how poor your circumstances or station in life are.
- Loughla 11y ago
  The issue is that 'Better' is a subjective term. I don't enjoy wild swings of emotion and the loss of control that often accompanies; so level-headed and clear thinking are better for me.
- BurningFrog 11y ago
  They feel better in the moment, but result in dumber decisions. So they're a lot like alcohol.
- balabaster 11y ago
  Happiness is found by peace in your own reflection. Be happy where you are, with what you have, with who you are. It's not attained by anything further than this. Arousal feels good, but that's not happiness. Thrill feels good, but it's not happiness. These things are distractions, like drugs, hobbies, work. Happiness is contentment within the moment and delight in what the moment brings.

sukilot 11y ago

Often happiness, thrill, arousal is better than thinking with a clear head.

sirclueless 11y ago
Are they? To me it seems obvious that if one is seeking those emotions actively, then one will be disappointed or worse if they prove unattainable. For whatever reason, be it psychological or physiological, it is clear that humans cannot maintain a perpetual high. The serotonin is expended, the stimulant wears off, unhealthy dependencies on emotional states are created. An even keel is worth any number of highs in my opinion. The goal should not be an emotion or a high-water mark, but rather to make progress. Progress is tangible, you can hang your hat on it and be proud of it, and most importantly it's available to you no matter how poor your circumstances or station in life are.
Loughla 11y ago
The issue is that 'Better' is a subjective term. I don't enjoy wild swings of emotion and the loss of control that often accompanies; so level-headed and clear thinking are better for me.
BurningFrog 11y ago
They feel better in the moment, but result in dumber decisions. So they're a lot like alcohol.
balabaster 11y ago
Happiness is found by peace in your own reflection. Be happy where you are, with what you have, with who you are. It's not attained by anything further than this. Arousal feels good, but that's not happiness. Thrill feels good, but it's not happiness. These things are distractions, like drugs, hobbies, work. Happiness is contentment within the moment and delight in what the moment brings.