The satisfaction Dilemma

I came across a captivating article written by an author, podcaster, and Harvard University professor. The author has published many books on finding satisfaction and happiness and is considered an expert. He shared a lengthy story of his life quest for satisfaction and happiness. In the beginning, he introduced the "satisfaction dilemma," which describes our human nature—our constant hunger for more and our craving for what we pursue and love. However, the quest for more is never truly satisfied.

He reflects on his personal life, ambitions for fame, and the drive for achievement. As a goal setter, he created bucket lists, but to his disappointment, he did not find the lasting satisfaction he craved when he achieved his goals. While the feeling of satisfaction was there, it was very short-lived. He ultimately discovered that he was much happier and more satisfied when he intentionally chose not to chase the things he desired.

He suggests creating a “reverse bucket list” to solve the “satisfaction dilemma.” In other words, list everything you typically pursue and intentionally avoid those things while focusing on less attractive aspects of life. By doing so, you will find greater contentment and happiness. He argues that by pursuing relationships and spending quality time with family, you will feel much happier and more satisfied when the things on your bucket list unexpectedly come your way (Brooks, 2022).

The greatest thinkers have sought to uncover the secrets of happiness, but I have found that the Bible has offered this wisdom to believers for ages.

The Bible also acknowledges the satisfaction dilemma, claiming that what you love often leaves you wanting more. Ecclesiastes 5:10-17 states: "Whoever loves money never has enough; whoever loves wealth is never satisfied with their income." However, you will find true satisfaction if you direct that love towards God and pursue Him rather than what you desire. The author's idea of “the reverse bucket list” works because it mostly aligns with the Bible's message. If God is your ultimate pursuit, everything else will fall into place and provide satisfaction because it was not your primary focus. 

Jesus reveals this secret to the woman at the well, telling her that if she continues to pursue the water, which she believes will quench her thirst, she will remain thirsty. Yet, if she pursues Him—the true living water—she will find lasting satisfaction.

Brooks, A. C. (2024, July 10). How wanting less leads to satisfaction. The Atlantic. https://www.theatlantic.com/magazine/archive/2022/03/why-we-are-never-satisfied-happiness/621304/