1. Why Hedonism & Eudaimonia Are Important
Quality of life arises not only from health and success, but also from inner fulfillment.
Philosophy distinguishes between hedonism (the pursuit of pleasure and joy) and eudaimonia (the pursuit of meaning and virtue).
Both influence how we shape and experience our lives – the balance determines long-term satisfaction.
2. Basics & Explanation
- Hedonism:
- Focus on enjoyment, pleasure, immediate gratification.
- Examples: good food, leisure, travel, entertainment.
- Eudaimonia:
- Focus on meaning, values, personal growth.
- Examples: engagement, creativity, relationships, self-actualization.
- Bestforming Logic:
- Quality of life arises from the combination: pleasurable moments for the now + meaningful goals for tomorrow.
3. Challenges & Risks
- One-sidedness:
- Only hedonism → short-term fun, long-term emptiness.
- Only eudaimonia → seriousness, risk of renunciation and overload.
- Societal Pressure: Consumer orientation vs. self-optimization.
- Lack of Reflection: Many act unconsciously instead of consciously creating balance.
4. Tips & First Steps
- Reflect: Which activities bring you joy? Which bring you meaning?
- Create balance: Consciously enjoy hedonistic moments, pursue eudaimonic projects in the long term.
- Structure your everyday life: Integrate pleasure and meaning into routines.
- Create awareness: Use a gratitude journal or reflection exercises.
- Conscious consumption: Focus on experiences instead of things.
5. Your Next Step
Get the bestforming app and discover:
- Tools for balancing pleasure and meaning
- Routines for more joy AND fulfillment in everyday life
- Reflections that help you consciously shape your quality of life
This is how you find your balance between pleasure and meaning – and live more fulfilled.