For many in our society, career fulfillment has been heavily influenced by the global trend of linking happiness with job satisfaction. We often hear people saying, “Find a job that makes you happy,” but this mindset overlooks a critical truth: happiness is fleeting, and tying it to something as uncertain as a job is risky. Jobs in Bangladesh come with their own challenges—be it in the corporate world, freelancing, or even running a small business. Often, jobs provide stability or financial security, but they rarely guarantee constant happiness.

Chasing happiness through a career can leave individuals trapped in an endless cycle of dissatisfaction. As economist and author Dr. Robert Lustig points out in his research, constantly seeking pleasure through external achievements can make us feel more distressed. In Bangladesh, where social media, even like Linkedin, has become a powerful tool for self-comparison, many young professionals chase promotions, recognition, and wealth, only to realize that these goals don’t offer lasting happiness.

The pursuit of happiness, as seen in much of the Western world, has its roots in seeking instant gratification. However, many Eastern philosophies, including Bangladesh’s own cultural practices, have long emphasized contentment over happiness. This distinction is critical. Contentment means being at peace with where you are, even if the circumstances aren’t perfect.

In my opinion of and many others , the emphasis on contentment is deeply rooted in the traditions of spirituality, where inner peace and balance are viewed as essential components of a fulfilling life. By focusing on contentment, rather than constantly seeking more, we can engage more genuinely with our lives and careers. This approach offers a healthier and more sustainable way to live, especially in a competitive job market where not everyone will land their “dream job.”

Research shows that it’s not just about being happy; it’s about feeling the full range of human emotions—what experts call “emodiversity.” Even after we get a new job we often shy away from discussing negative emotions like fear, frustration, or sadness, viewing them as weaknesses. However, these emotions are a natural part of life, and ignoring them only leads to greater distress.

Allowing ourselves to feel and process these emotions can actually lead to better mental health. In fact, studies have found that those who experience a broad spectrum of emotions report fewer health issues and a lower likelihood of burnout. In the context of Bangladesh, this is particularly important. Given the pressures of societal expectations and the competitive job market, learning to navigate emotions without suppressing them can lead to more balanced, healthier lives.

Ambition isn’t a bad thing. Many Bangladeshis are ambitious, constantly working to improve their lives and the lives of their families. But ambition must be balanced with contentment. When we pursue goals from a place of inner peace, rather than from feelings of inadequacy, we are more likely to find satisfaction in our efforts, even if the external rewards—such as promotions or accolades—don’t immediately follow.

Sometimes, success means finding stability, contributing to your community, or simply having a job that supports your family. These are just as valuable as any promotion or pay raise.

Ultimately, the key to a fulfilling life lies in balancing ambition with contentment. While the global narrative may emphasize the pursuit of happiness as the ultimate goal, our cultural roots remind us that true fulfillment comes from within. By embracing a mindset of contentment and allowing ourselves to experience all emotions—not just the positive ones—we can lead richer, more meaningful lives.

Instead of chasing an elusive version of happiness tied to career success, we should focus on what brings us a sense of peace and purpose, both in our professional and personal lives. In doing so, we can break free from the constant pressure to achieve more and start appreciating what we already have.