Tariq Mahmood Awan

Happiness is a complex and multifaceted phenomenon that can be understood and measured differently. In this response, I will critically evaluate some of the definitions, components, and factors of happiness from various perspectives.

One of the common ways to define happiness is as an emotional state characterized by joy, pleasure, contentment, and fulfilment. This definition focuses on the subjective experience of positive emotions in the present moment or response to specific events. However, this definition may not capture happiness’s broader and more enduring aspects, such as life satisfaction, meaning, and purpose. Moreover, this definition may need to account for the diversity and variability of human emotions, as different people may experience and express happiness differently.

Another way to define happiness is subjective well-being, a broader concept including emotional and cognitive components. Subjective well-being consists of two main elements. It balances positive and negative emotions and evaluates one’s life and domains. This definition allows for a more comprehensive and nuanced assessment of happiness, as it considers both the frequency and intensity of emotions, as well as the quality and extent of life conditions. However, this definition may also have some limitations, such as difficulty measuring and comparing subjective judgments, the influence of cultural and social norms, and the possibility of adaptation and bias.

Eudaimonia is a third way to define happiness, an ancient Greek term meaning “human flourishing” or “living well “. This definition emphasizes the ethical and philosophical aspects of happiness, such as living according to one’s true nature, fulfilling one’s potential, and contributing to the common good. This definition implies that happiness is not merely a subjective feeling or a personal judgment but rather an objective state of being that results from virtuous actions and habits. However, this definition may also pose challenges, such as the ambiguity and complexity of human nature, the diversity and conflict of moral values, and the difficulty of achieving and maintaining eudaimonia.

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As these definitions suggest, happiness can be influenced by various factors at different levels. These internal factors include personality traits, genetic predispositions, cognitive styles, and psychological needs. These external factors include environmental conditions, social relationships, cultural practices, and political systems. Some of these factors are stable and enduring, such as age, gender, income, and education. These factors, such as life events, goals, expectations, and interventions, are dynamic and changing.

Therefore, happiness is a multifaceted phenomenon that can be defined, measured, and influenced differently. Happiness can be seen as an emotional state, a subjective well-being, or a human flourishing. Happiness can be affected by internal and external factors at different levels. Happiness can be stable or dynamic depending on various circumstances. Happiness can be pursued or attained through multiple means. Happiness can be shared or enjoyed individually. Depending on one’s perspective, happiness can be a simple or complex concept.

Civil servants in Pakistan are the public human resources who work for the different governments of Pakistan in various capacities and levels. They may face many challenges and difficulties in their jobs, such as corruption, nepotism, political pressure, low salaries, lack of resources, sadism, alienation and public criticism. These factors may affect their happiness and well-being in dissimilar aspects of their lives.

To attain a combination of happiness covering mundane, psychological, administrative and soul aspects, civil servants in Pakistan may need to adopt some strategies and practices that can help them cope with stress, find meaning and purpose in their work, and balance their personal and professional lives.

The mundane aspect refers to life’s elemental needs and comforts, such as food, shelter, health, safety, and leisure. Civil servants in Pakistan may need to ensure that they have adequate and stable income, access to quality health care, safe and comfortable living conditions, and time for relaxation and recreation. They may also need to manage their finances wisely, avoid unnecessary debts, and save for the future. They may also need to cultivate healthy habits, such as eating well, exercising regularly, sleeping enough, and avoiding substance abuse.

The psychological aspect refers to the mental and emotional state of mind, such as happiness, satisfaction, self-esteem, confidence, optimism, and resilience. Civil servants in Pakistan need to develop a positive attitude towards their work, themselves, and others. They may need to appreciate their achievements, recognize their strengths, learn from their mistakes, and seek feedback and improvement. They may also need to cope with stress effectively by using relaxation techniques, seeking social support, or seeking professional help. They may also need to express their emotions constructively by communicating assertively, resolving conflicts peacefully, or venting appropriately.

The administrative aspect refers to the work’s organizational and professional characteristics, such as goals, roles, responsibilities, performance, recognition, and rewards. Pakistan’s Civil servants must align their personal values and goals with the mission and vision of their ministries and departments. They may need to understand their roles and responsibilities clearly, follow the rules and regulations faithfully and perform their duties diligently and efficiently. They may also need recognition and rewards for their work by asking for feedback, appreciation, promotion, or incentives. They may also need to collaborate effectively with their colleagues and leaders by building trust, respect, cooperation, and teamwork. They should also develop administrative creativity in their administrative assignments.

Finally, the soul aspect refers to life’s spiritual, virtuous and ethical aspects, such as meaning, purpose, morality, faith, and service. Civil servants in Pakistan may need to find meaning and purpose in their work by connecting it with a higher cause or a greater good. They may need to view their work as a service to the nation or humanity rather than a mere job or career. They may also need to uphold high moral standards by being honest, honourable and dignified. They should not sell their souls to administrative or political demons to attain truthful happiness. 

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Concludingly, happiness is the end of having multiple means. If civil servants’ postings, transfers and promotions are not making them happy, they must examine themselves. They should dissect all aspects of subjective and objective happiness and strive for happiness. An unhappy civil service career is a waste of the dignity of life.