“Joy can only be real if people look upon their life as a service and have a definite object in life outside themselves and their personal happiness.”
- September 9, 1828 – November 20, 1910
- Born in Russia
- Writer, philosopher
- Wrote masterpieces such as “War and Peace,” “Anna Karenina,” and “Ivan the Fool,” and had a major impact not only on literature but also on politics and society.
Quote
“Joy can only be real if people look upon their life as a service and have a definite object in life outside themselves and their personal happiness.”
Explanation
In this quote, Leo Tolstoy argues that true joy is found not through self-centered pursuits or personal gratification, but through a life dedicated to service and to a purpose greater than one’s own happiness. Tolstoy suggests that when individuals view their lives as a service to others or a contribution to a larger cause, they find a deeper and more lasting sense of fulfillment. He emphasizes that selflessness and a sense of duty toward something beyond personal desires lead to true joy, as they align a person’s actions with moral and spiritual purpose. For Tolstoy, joy is not the result of material success or fleeting pleasures but arises from a life committed to serving others and living with purpose.
This perspective is particularly relevant in today’s world, where the pursuit of personal happiness and individual success often takes precedence. Many people may struggle with emptiness or dissatisfaction, despite achieving personal goals, because their lives are focused primarily on their own pleasure and gain. Tolstoy’s message calls for a shift from self-centeredness to altruism, urging individuals to find meaning and fulfillment by dedicating themselves to something that benefits others, such as community service, social justice, or spiritual growth.
Tolstoy’s own life was a reflection of this belief. Later in life, he abandoned his privileged position in Russian society and sought a simpler, more meaningful existence focused on moral clarity and service to humanity. His works, including The Kingdom of God Is Within You, convey his conviction that true joy is found not in personal achievements or material wealth but in living a life of selflessness and moral integrity. This quote is a reminder that real happiness comes from dedicating oneself to the well-being of others and contributing to the greater good, rather than seeking pleasure in personal satisfaction alone.
