This article (cited below) poses an interesting question: Why do some people feel unfulfilled even when they have happy (“feeling good”) and meaningful (“doing good”) lives?
As I’ve explored elsewhere (as in stories), “thriving” is a tagline for many fortunate to be outside conflict & other hazardous zones: “live ambitiously.” Hopeful struggle. Busy, industrious (transactional) fulfilled living. So, what’s missing?
Why introduce questions or experiences which might shift the way you see the world? Why entertain discomfort – ‘pain’ your ‘brain’ – or pursue something without clear utility?
I’ve visualized the article in a diagram, which adds “psychological richness” to the mix of human well-being – “what it means to live well.” It highlights two aspects which often get sidelined in our society: curiosity & growth.
Curiosity becomes a luxury.
Growth is replaced by a notion of “good enough.” Or a notion of haven – attainment of (and inclusion in) a place with assured wellness.
In either case, there’s a tone of changeless satisfaction (or contentment with little complaint). Nothing to fix here.
[Diagram: THE GOOD LIFE.pdf]
• scitech daily > “Psychologists Reveal The Surprising Reason a “Happy” Life May Leave You Empty” by Karen Dooley, University of Florida (8-23-2025)
“College is a good example. It’s not always fun, and you might not always feel a deep sense of meaning, but it changes how you think,” Westgate said. “The same goes for experiences like living through a hurricane. You wouldn’t call it happy or even meaningful, but it shakes up your perspective.”
While many people ideally want all three — happiness, meaning, and richness — there are trade-offs. Rich experiences often come at the cost of comfort or clarity.