A model for happiness

The Daily Drip

Regarding happiness, there are three types of people with unique approaches.


The Golden Retriever
This is the person who just loves being alive. They don't worry too much about work. They clock in and they clock out. They don't think too hard about politics or the state of the world--that's someone else's worry. Even when they're at work, they're not thinking about the future of the company or how to improve systems. They're motivated by the carrot or the stick. When they think of a perfect life, it's somewhere on a boat drinking cocktails and lounging with friends around the TV. There's not a lot of ambition, anxiety, or much of anything really--expect the desire to enjoy life.

The Work Horse
This is the person who is up and moving at 5 AM every day, juggles multiple projects, and checks email while they're on the toilet. They live to work. Even when they're not at work, it's hard for them to think of what they could be doing that's NOT work. In order to keep working during their off-time, they start personal projects and intense hobbies. This person either gets joy from working, relieves anxiety by working, or just believes that the end of all of those projects is going to lead to a moment of happiness. They're saving happiness for the end.

The Bird Dog
This person is focused and works hard when they're on the clock. When it's time to move, they give it their all. They're in the mud, rolling up their sleeves, doing what's required for high performance. But as soon as the mission is complete, it's time to focus on the things that rejuvenate them. They're not afraid of naps, playing with kids, or rolling in the grass. They know what they like and they know that more work will show up again soon. They balance work life and play life effectively while also performing well in both.

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Obviously, this is just a model that I made up. It's not perfect and there are some overlaps. In general, I'd say that each of these are a part of us in some way. It's not that we only fall into one of these categories.

That said, which of these is the most you?

What do you think is missing from this idea?

I hope you carry this idea into this next work week and focus on your balance of work and life so you can achieve happiness.