Social Network and Happiness

Whenever a person is let free of their basic chores of survival, more often than not, they start thinking of individual goals of their own life. Some crave for fame, money; some see satisfaction in places that cannot be equated to a monetary amount. A very recent set of incidents took me down the thinking alley searching if there was an exit or was it blind.

Over a couple of drinks, my friends got into a discussion seemingly headed nowhere. The reason was primarily due to disconnect in understanding what need was the key in their pursuit of happiness. My getting involved contributed little to get to any consensus, but sure did entangle me in a web of thoughts. Also it got me back to the Maslow’s hierarchy of needs- the gospel truth that every marketing man starts life with.

Amongst the two, one guy was up in arms about the opportunities lost along the way by him and his father in an effort to live a life well within the norms and expectations of people. Like most others, his father had missed out on rising higher in a high rated PSU in India due to reservations. He had suffered similar instances in getting good education. His idea of being happy in life was rising to a level where his name is attached to something so mammoth that the achievement makes him immortal.

Contrary to him was the other friend involved in the discussion. This one had let go of more lucrative opportunities in his career since his happiness was time with family. Working for an airline company, he was known in the office to come in at 9 am and leave at 5:30pm, ensure he used his 32 annual leaves and free tickets to spend time with his family. His thought came from a very simple source- I want my family hold me in high regards for giving them the small joys of life everyday.

While both my friends were not in appreciation of each other’s needs, one thing was for sure- with physiological, safety and belongingness to a family was in place, they were both aiming for raising their self esteem. While one wanted his self esteem raised on a larger stage, one was happier playing his act on the settings in his own home and family surroundings.

Just as I was about to close the case, another instance added a new twist. Driving my grand mom back from her friends place, she told me of a certain lady now immobile due to age. Even though the household was full of people, she called the group on phone occasionally candidly reminding that she was still around.

What were all these people seeking? What do people on facebook seek? The answer was the same- the need to raise Self Esteem. Whatever your Social Network; family, friends, professional circles, internet or anything bigger- it is that applause, appreciation, just a causal visit of number of ‘Likes’ that we all crave for, strive for- and derive happiness from.