Aristotelian Approach to Happiness

Photo credit: Mohammed Zar (Pexels)

Have you ever found yourself wondering why so much of what we learned in school felt theoretical or irrelevant at the time? Subjects that seemed like “filler” were often pushed aside in favor of more “serious” ones like math and science. I know I did.

Back then, I barely remembered the names of philosophers we briefly studied, let alone the essence of their teachings. We were told that success depended on mastering hard subjects, not on contemplating virtue, meaning, or the good life.

And yet, as I navigate adulthood, I find myself returning to those “filler” subjects with renewed appreciation. Perhaps they weren’t filler at all. I now see philosophy – especially Aristotle’s teachings – as a guiding light on the path to genuine happiness.

Reconsidering the Role of Philosophy

If philosophical studies had been taken more seriously in our early education, imagine how different society might be today. In a world fractured by division and disconnection, ancient wisdom offers tools for healing.

Take Aristotle’s Nicomachean Ethics, for example. In it, he explores virtue in its many forms-focusing particularly on justice and friendship.

From his perspective, friendship is not transactional or self-serving. It’s a mutual recognition of the other as an equal-someone deserving of respect, compassion, and fairness. Justice flows from this kind of friendship. It’s about equity, not ego.

This might sound idealistic, especially in today’s fast-paced, success-driven culture. But imagine if more of us chose to live by these principles-how would our workplaces, communities, and relationships change?

If we bring this lesson to life today: I’m volunteering at a foundation with my colleague Yolanda, a holistic therapist, and our mission is to bring well-being to caregivers of children with various pathologies. We both genuinely care about providing spaces that bring caregivers to a state of peace and tranquility. We don’t use the same techniques; we develop a joint plan and learn from each other and from the gifts we possess to fulfill our mission.

This isn’t friendship of mere utility (we both benefit from each other’s abilities) or pleasure (we enjoy each other’s company). While these elements are present, their connection runs deeper. I admire Yolanda’s work ethic and her ability to explain and implement relaxation techniques with caregivers. Yolanda, in turn, values the impact of the coaching and mentoring sessions I conduct with caregivers. We challenge each other to be better, sharing knowledge, offering constructive criticism that allows us to advance the processes we carry out with caregivers, and celebrating each other’s successes. We rejoice in each other’s virtues and help each other grow, embodying Aristotle’s “perfect friendship” based on mutual admiration for character and a shared pursuit of goodness.

Practicing the “Golden Mean”

Aristotle also introduced the concept of the “golden mean”, a balanced path between two extremes. Virtue, he argued, lies in moderation. For example, generosity is the golden mean between stinginess and extravagance.

By applying this principle in our daily lives, we train ourselves to act with balance and integrity. This isn’t about being perfect—it’s about being aware, choosing wisely, and striving to live in accordance with our values.

The golden mean gives us a roadmap for ethical living. It helps us avoid the pitfalls of extremes and guides us toward wiser, more compassionate decisions.

From Virtue to Eudaimonia

But Aristotle didn’t stop at virtue. He spoke of Eudaimonia, often translated as human flourishing. This idea isn’t about fleeting pleasure or external success. It’s about living well and doing well—living in alignment with one’s highest self.

Virtues are not just lofty ideals; they are habits of action that shape our character and our destiny. When we practice them, we cultivate a life of purpose, contribution, and joy.

Isn’t it ironic that today’s focus on well-being, flourishing, and mental health echoes what these ancient philosophers taught centuries ago? What was once deemed unnecessary is now recognized as essential.

This fundamental idea directly informs contemporary well-being research that moves beyond mere hedonic (pleasure-seeking) notions of happiness. Positive psychology, for instance, emphasizes eudaimonic well-being, focusing on concepts like meaning, purpose, personal growth, self-actualization, and flourishing, which align closely with Aristotle's vision. Research like Carol Ryff's Psychological Well-being Theory and Self-Determination Theory (Deci & Ryan) is explicitly rooted in these eudaimonic principles.

A Call to Reflect and Reset

In light of all this, I invite you to pause and reconnect with your inner self. Reflect on what might be missing, not in your bank account or your resume, but in your heart.

Where has kindness gone? Are we treating ourselves and others with the care and respect we deserve? Remember: our thoughts influence our actions, and our actions impact others.

If we want to flourish and support others in doing the same-then let’s return to these foundational teachings. Aristotle’s writings offer more than historical insight; they offer practical guidance for living a meaningful life.

Let’s build our happiness on solid ground, grounded in virtue, balance, and mindful action. In doing so, we’ll not only improve ourselves, but also contribute to a better society-one rooted in wisdom, compassion, and justice.