The Path to True Happiness

 

One of Seneca’s works, On the Happy Life (De Vita Beata), is dedicated to the theme of happiness. In this dialogue, he says that Virtue is the starting point and the key to a happy life.

According to the Stoic philosopher, we should not blindly follow what others say or do. Instead, we should try to understand what is right and make our own thoughtful choices. Just because many people act a certain way doesn’t mean it’s the right path. We must always aim for what is good. Virtue, by nature, avoids anything that harms others. A person should be honest, fair, and loyal. In short, they should have a free mind—not controlled by desires, greed, or the search for power, but guided by Honesty and Integrity.

So, a happy person is someone who lives with Balance and Wisdom, who does not become a slave to material things, and who is not easily influenced by outside events. This person trusts in their own strengths, talents, and abilities.

Seneca says:

"If I lose my riches, they take only themselves away from me. But you—if you lose them—you feel lost too. For me, money matters a little; for you, it means everything. I own my wealth, but you are owned by yours. So stop saying that philosophers shouldn’t have money: no one ever said that wisdom must live in poverty. A philosopher can have wealth, as long as it is not stolen, unfairly gained, or linked to violence or injustice."

Therefore, it is our will and choices that shape our path. When we aim for good goals and act in a moral way, we grow in Virtue—and through that, we reach True Happiness.

Those who follow the path of Virtue find inner and outer Peace. They can face life’s challenges with courage and calm. They are not trapped by the need for power, fame, or money. They build deep connections with others. They become beacons of Wisdom for those around them. They don’t suffer from fear, anxiety, or depression, and they never feel lonely or empty. Instead, they feel fulfilled, respect all living beings and the Creator, spread noble Virtues, and do good deeds in the world.