“Even if the goal is empty, human happiness exists only in the process of striving toward a goal.”
- January 14, 1925 – November 25, 1970
- Born in Japan
- Novelist, playwright, critic, political activist
Japanese
「空虚な目標であれ、目標をめざして努力する過程にしか人間の幸福が存在しない」
English
“Even if the goal is empty, human happiness exists only in the process of striving toward a goal.”
Explanation
In this quote, Mishima suggests that the pursuit of a goal, regardless of whether that goal is meaningful or empty, is the true source of human happiness. He implies that it is not necessarily the achievement of a goal that brings fulfillment, but rather the journey or process of striving towards it. This perspective emphasizes the value of effort, discipline, and the sense of purpose that comes with setting a goal, regardless of its ultimate significance. Mishima argues that human happiness is rooted in the act of striving—in the struggle itself—rather than in the final accomplishment of any particular objective. In this view, the meaninglessness or emptiness of the goal becomes less important than the sense of engagement and effort that comes with working toward it.
Mishima’s statement aligns with his broader philosophy, which often emphasized the importance of discipline, action, and aesthetic striving in life. In his view, the human condition is marked by a constant search for purpose, and this search is what gives life its meaning. Even if the goal is illusory or unattainable, the act of pursuing it provides a sense of direction and structure that is essential for personal fulfillment. This idea reflects a pragmatic approach to happiness, where the process of working toward something—even if that “something” is ultimately empty or unimportant—becomes a fundamental part of the human experience.
In a modern context, this quote speaks to the psychological and existential need for purpose and meaning in life. Today, many people still find happiness not in the attainment of specific goals, but in the sense of progress and effort that comes with pursuing them. Whether the goals are career-related, personal growth, or creative endeavors, the process itself often provides a sense of purpose and satisfaction. Mishima’s words remind us that happiness may not always come from reaching the finish line, but from the dedication and striving inherent in the journey itself. In a world where goals are often seen as end points, Mishima offers a counterpoint, suggesting that the effort toward a goal can be the source of happiness, even when the goal itself lacks intrinsic value.
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