here’s a reason this question has been debated by philosophers, psychologists, and everyday people for centuries — it cuts right to the heart of what motivates us as human beings. And the interesting part is that both sides have compelling truths behind them.

The Case for the Pursuit

Many people find that the journey toward a goal brings the deepest sense of excitement. That’s because:

• Anticipation creates energy. Looking forward to something activates imagination, hope, and motivation.
• Progress feels rewarding. Each small step gives a sense of growth and purpose.
• We feel most alive when we’re striving. Challenges push us, shape us, and give our days meaning.

Psychologists even say that dopamine — the brain’s “motivation chemical” — spikes more during the pursuit than the achievement. In other words, the chase itself can be thrilling.

The Case for Attainment

On the other hand, reaching a goal brings its own kind of satisfaction:

• Completion gives closure. There’s a deep relief in finishing something you worked hard for.
• Success boosts confidence. Achieving a desire proves to yourself that you’re capable.
• Rewards feel good. Whether it’s a trophy, a diploma, a relationship, or a personal milestone, the moment of attainment can be powerful.

But here’s the twist: that feeling often fades faster than we expect. This is called “hedonic adaptation” — we get used to our achievements, and the emotional high doesn’t last forever.

So which gives us more pleasure?

If we’re being honest, the pursuit tends to give more long‑lasting satisfaction, while attainment gives a shorter, more intense burst of pleasure. The journey shapes who we are; the achievement marks what we’ve done.

A lot of people discover that once they reach a goal, they immediately start looking for the next one. That’s not failure — it’s human nature. We’re wired to keep moving.

My take on it

The richest life usually comes from balancing both:

• Enjoying the process
• Celebrating the wins
• And then choosing a new direction to grow toward

It’s the rhythm between striving and achieving that keeps us fulfilled.

That Bertrand Russell line is sharp because it captures a truth people don’t always want to admit: happiness isn’t a permanent state you “arrive” at — it’s something that exists because of longing, effort, and even a little dissatisfaction. If you’re working on an essay or reflection, here’s a thoughtful, well‑developed way to explore the idea.

The Pursuit vs. the Attainment of Happiness

Many societies, especially democratic ones, treat the pursuit of happiness as a basic human right. It’s written into founding documents, taught in schools, and woven into cultural values. But the idea of attaining happiness — reaching a final, lasting state of contentment — is far more complicated. In fact, the very structure of human psychology suggests that happiness is less about possession and more about pursuit.

Why Happiness Is Hard to “Attain”

Human beings adapt quickly. A new car, a new relationship, a new achievement — all of these bring joy at first, but the feeling fades as we get used to them. Psychologists call this hedonic adaptation. It means that even when we get what we want, the emotional high doesn’t last forever.

This is why people often feel a strange emptiness after achieving a long‑term goal. The finish line is satisfying, but it also removes the sense of direction that made the journey meaningful.

The Value of Wanting

Bertrand Russell’s idea — “To be without some of the things you want is an indispensable part of happiness” — suggests that desire itself is essential. Wanting something gives life momentum. It creates purpose, curiosity, and motivation. Without desire, life becomes flat.

In other words, a little dissatisfaction is not a flaw in the human condition — it’s fuel.

• When we want to improve, we grow.
• When we want connection, we build relationships.
• When we want meaning, we create art, communities, and ideas.

Happiness isn’t the absence of desire; it’s the balance between appreciating what we have and striving for what we don’t.

The Pursuit as a Source of Joy

The pursuit of happiness often brings more lasting satisfaction than the attainment of it. The process of working toward something — learning, improving, imagining possibilities — activates hope and engagement. These feelings can last far longer than the moment of achievement.

Think about training for a sport, practicing an instrument, or saving for something important. The daily progress, the anticipation, and the sense of purpose often feel richer than the final moment of arrival.

A More Realistic View of Happiness

If happiness is not a destination, then what is it? Many philosophers and psychologists argue that happiness is a dynamic state — a rhythm between wanting and having, between striving and resting. It’s not about eliminating desire but managing it wisely.

Russell’s insight reminds us that being human means always reaching a little beyond where we are. That reaching is not a sign of failure; it’s a sign of life.