Caught on the Hedonic Treadmill? How Desire and Envy Sabotage Your Joy

Why does the thrill of a new gadget or luxury item fade so quickly? The answer lies in the hedonic treadmill — a psychological phenomenon where people tend to return to a baseline level of happiness despite positive or negative events. Imagine running on a treadmill: no matter how fast you go, you remain in the same place emotionally. This cycle traps us in a never-ending chase for more, leaving lasting contentment elusive.

Desire is deeply social. Reference group theory explains that we evaluate ourselves relative to those around us rather than by absolute standards. This is why envy often arises within our peer groups, toward neighbors or colleagues, rather than distant celebrities. Our craving for status symbols, luxury goods, or social recognition is often driven more by wanting to impress or match others than by intrinsic needs.

Picture a bustling shopping mall where people compare luxury goods, their eyes flicking with envy at neighbors’ possessions. This social comparison fuels dissatisfaction and perpetuates the treadmill. Ancient philosophers recognized this, distinguishing between natural, necessary desires and superfluous ones that are endless and unsatisfying.

Breaking free requires awareness and a shift toward internal sources of satisfaction. Contentment grows when we focus on meaningful relationships, personal growth, and authentic experiences rather than material accumulation.

Next, we will explore how living a considered life grounded in philosophy and self-awareness can help reclaim your story and cultivate genuine happiness.